Staying Safe

We want you to have fun abroad, but we also want you to stay safe!

Here are some tips to help you stay out of harm’s way:

  • Use your common sense, just as if you were home.
  • Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
  • Do NOT walk while talking on the phone or with headphones in; you may become a target because you are not paying attention. Walk like you are confident and know where you are going.
  • Don’t put your phone in your back pocket, or have it out while on public transit. This makes you easily susceptible to pickpockets.
  • Use caution if you drink alcohol. It can impede your judgment and the penalties abroad are often stricter than in the US.
  • Know the local risks, i.e. what parts of town are not safe, especially after dark. If you do not feel safe somewhere or with someone, GET OUT (preferably with another friend, and not alone).
  • Know the emergency number(s) in your host country.
  • You will be expected to know and follow the local laws and customs. Your US rights don’t apply abroad!
  • Avoid large demonstrations and crowds.
  • Know your address (or better yet, keep it with you at all times), so you can take a cab home.
  • Make sure you have downloaded rideshare apps on your phone like Uber in case you need to call one. Depending on the country, these apps can be safer than taking a regular cab.
  • Register your travels with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) from the State Department. This allows you to record information about your upcoming trip abroad with the respective US Embassy or Consulate. They can also send you alerts about events or other advisories while abroad. Friends and family can sign up to get these alerts as well.
  • Know the location of the US Embassy or Consulate in countries to which you plan to travel.
  • If you have an emergency, we recommend you or a friend always contact your resident director. If you would like to talk with a W&M staff member, call campus police at 757-221-4596. This number is on your W&M ID card and on the emergency card that you received at orientation. Campus Police can connect you with the appropriate contact at the Reves Center, Counseling Center, Dean of Students Office, etc. 24/7.
  • Both the UK and US governments have useful websites for travellers, offering advice on safety and country-specific travel information. W&M recommends that you check these before making travel plans, or setting off on any independent trip.