Safety

Dear USFSP Study Abroad Student,

Our greatest concern is your safety while studying overseas. World events mean we all have to be diligent and alert, even at home.

Your preparation should start before you travel. Leave a copy of your passport information page with a relative in case you lose your passport on your trip. Take our contact information in case you need to get hold of us.

When you arrive overseas, you should register with the U.S. Consulate or Embassy. Call the U.S. mission -- do not go there unless you have to -- and give them your overseas contact information. Carry the mission's phone number in case problems arise.

Maintain a low profile when overseas. Do not talk loudly, wear expensive jewelry, or carefully examine the foreign money you withdraw it from an ATM. In sensitive areas, do not wear USF T-shirts or other clothing that identifies you as foreign.

It is unlikely that world events will effect your stay. However, read the newspapers and have a plan to contact your family if a terrorist event happens in the Tampa Bay area. Stay in touch with your family so they know youre safe.

If you take weekend excursions, let your Program Director know where you are. Leave the contact information of your hotels, and take contact information with you.

Do not join demonstrations for or against anything. Protests are often much more contentious than an outsider could realize, and around the world, riot police do not hesitate to use tear gas, rubber bullets, or even live ammunition.

This letter is not meant to alarm you unnecessarily. However, you will be much safer if you follow these instructions and keep a low profile. For more information, please read the links below.

Sincerely,

International Affairs, USF-SP

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From the US State Department:

"A Safe Trip Abroad": http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/abroad_pub_safetrip.html

"Tips for Students": http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/livingabroad_studying.html

"Crisis Awareness and Preparedness": http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/abroad_emergency_prepare.html