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Safety Abroad

Safety Concerns While Abroad

If a health or safety issue arises while you are abroad please notify your host institution and Washington College right away. 

You can contact the Global Education Office (410-810-7100) during office hours, or Public Safety after hours (Public Safety: 410-778-7810). 

Every student studying on a Washington College sponsored study abroad program has access to ACE/Chubb Travel Insurance. This insurance covers medical emergencies for Washington College students abroad, as well as emergency evacuation. Further details on how to access the Global Insurances’ information and medical health insurance were distributed during pre-departure orientation, but you can also view the list of phone numbers here.
*Some of our partner schools will require you to buy in-country insurance. Please inquire after this with the Global Education Office.
 

Tips on being safe while abroad

  • Review safety information provided on the U.S. State Department’s website.
  • Register with the U.S. Embassy in your host country through the Smart Traveler Enrollment system.  If you are a non-U.S. national, please review your home country’s Department of State for a similar service.
  • If you have a smart device, download the I’m Safe Abroad app, which helps alert your family and friends to your safety. 
  • Carry a photocopy of the front page of your passport.
  • Avoid locations known to be common gathering points for U.S. citizens (including bars, restaurants, nightclubs, etc.).
  • Avoid public demonstrations and other civil disturbances.
  • Don’t travel alone at night.  Don’t use short cuts, narrow alleys or poorly-lit streets.
  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Carry the following phone numbers and email addresses at all times

Be Informed

Know the local laws. When you are in a foreign country, you are subject to its laws. Monitor and assess safety issues in the region and country.  Periodically check the U.S. Department of State Consular Information Sheets and Travel Warnings.  Read local newspapers and guidebooks.