United Planet Volunteer Abroad Tip #6

A few weeks ago, we posted a graphic that highlighted the top ten tips for volunteering abroad, after compiling advice from our United Planet Quest alumni. We’re back this week to elaborate on the sixth tip. If you are thinking about participating in a United Planet Quest or are about to embark on your volunteer experience, read on!

Tip #6: Know emergency procedures

When you plan a volunteer abroad trip, you will want to make sure that your partner organization makes volunteer safety their number one concern. Before deciding on an organization to volunteer with, be sure they offer comprehensive safety procedures for volunteers, including emergency hotlines, access to travel insurance, and volunteer trainings and orientation. 

For instance, United Planet’s  in-country coordinators have undergone extensive risk-management and safety training, and our Boston office constantly monitors world news and events to preempt any potentially dangerous situations. Additionally, United Planet registers all volunteers with the US Department of State’s STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) so that you will be contacted in case of an emergency. However, even if your partner organization is careful about safety, it is very important to be aware of your surroundings and know what to do in an emergency situation while traveling abroad.

As we’ve mentioned before, doing a little research before departing can go a long way. Before leaving, search online about the safety of the location you will be traveling to and plan to avoid dangerous situations. For example, if it is not recommended to walk around a city at night, make alternate plans for your evenings. If certain types of crime, such as pickpocketing, is prevalent in your host country, make sure your valuables are secure and be very aware of your surroundings. Some general rules to keep in mind include, but are not limited to:

• don’t walk down dark streets and alleyways
• don’t travel alone at night
• don’t wear or carry obvious indicators of wealth (such as flashy jewelry)
• be wary of people who approach you to offer guidance or bargains

(adapted from the US Department of State’s “Tips for Traveling Abroad”)

If you are aware of your surroundings, you will likely be able to avoid potentially dangerous situations. Furthermore, if you are well-prepared, a potentially unnerving situation will be exceedingly less worrisome. For comprehensive safety tips for traveling abroad, visit the US Department of State’s website.

In addition to preparing for unexpected situations, it is also imperative to know the emergency procedures for the facility where you are volunteering.  When you volunteer with United Planet, information specific to your country and project will be provided to you during your pre-departure training and in-country orientation, and it is important to keep this information on hand while abroad. Keep any emergency phone numbers accessible at all times, including the emergency number for your country coordinator, which can be used 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you have any questions regarding emergency procedures in your country or about your own safety, do not hesitate to ask. It is much better to over-prepare than to be caught unaware in an emergency.

Although it is important to be prepared for emergencies, the vast majority of United Planet volunteers do not experience any problems while traveling abroad. Don’t let the fear of an unexpected situation keep you from having what could be the experience of a lifetime! If you are aware of your surroundings and use common sense, you can ensure that you have both an extremely fulfilling and safe trip.

You can find previous Volunteer Abroad Tips here:
Tip #1: Research the language
Tip #2: Research the culture
Tip #3: Let go of your expectations
Tip #4: Pack lightly
Tip #5: Don’t hide behind your camera

Tune back in next week for our next Volunteer Abroad Tip, and visit our website if you are interested in volunteering abroad!