Safety tips for living abroad

Be aware of local laws abroad
You should be familiar with both the customs and local laws of the country in which you study and travel. Remember that you are subject to the laws of your host country, and you are NOT protected by U.S. laws while abroad.

Keep a low profile
Do not act or dress in a manner that would immediately identify you as an American. You will quickly notice and learn the appropriate way to conduct yourself in your host country.

Leave irreplaceable items at home
If you have expensive jewelry or items you consider irreplaceable, leave them at home.

Safeguarding your luggage and belongings
Be sure to lock your luggage and label each piece with your name and address — on both the inside and outside. Make sure you receive a claim check for each item you check when traveling. Never leave your luggage or any bags unattended or leave them under the watch of a stranger. If you see a bag or piece of luggage that appears unattended, notify appropriate personnel or the police. Never agree to carry packages or letters for anyone you do not know.

Passports and traveler's checks
Make two photocopies of your passport ID page, airline tickets and credit cards. Leave one copy at home, and bring the second copy with you in case something is stolen. You also should leave a list at home of the serial numbers of any traveler’s checks you have in case of loss or theft. It is also a good idea to have extra passport-size photos of yourself in case these are needed for student IDs abroad, or in case your passport is lost or stolen.

Pickpockets
Beware of pickpockets and con artists. They exist everywhere, especially in crowds and areas where tourists gather. The most common sites for purse and camera snatching are central train stations or crowded shopping areas. Thieves often strike when people are distracted, such as when making a phone call or checking a train schedule while a bag is casually at one’s feet. If you carry a handbag, it should have a secure zipper closing, and you should carry it on the side away from the street. Walking on the inside of a sidewalk is also a precaution against handbag theft.

Stolen property
If anything is lost or stolen, report it to the local police. Keep a copy of the police report for insurance purposes, or in case you need to replace your passport or student visa. It is also necessary to report the loss of traveler’s checks to the nearest issuing office. You should report the loss or theft of your passport to both the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate to apply for a new one.

Use common sense
Avoid dangerous areas — don’t use short cuts, narrow alleys or poorly lit streets. Try not to be out on the street alone at night. Make a note of emergency phone numbers you might need, such as the police, fire department and U.S. Consulate. Every U.S. Consulate or Embassy has a duty officer on call around the clock to assist with emergencies.

These suggestions are not meant to alarm you or your family. Most students never experience these kinds of problems. But we encourage you to be well prepared, use common sense and be aware of potential risks when you travel.