International Travel
Safety and Security
E
MI brings the hope of Christ to some of the poorest people in our world. Poverty by its very nature creates conditions of instability unlike anything we witness in the Western world. As our brothers and sisters in Christ, your well-being is deeply important to us. Through the simple act of hosting an EMI team, the ministries we serve insulate us from many dangers. Although EMI makes every effort to shield its interns, volunteers, and staff from imminent danger, unpredictable and volatile situations may arise. These guidelines are intended to help minimize your risk and prepare you for those events that we hope never occur.
In a new environment…
ASK questions, WATCH your surroundings, and THINK ahead: • What emergencies are possible? • How will you respond? • Identify areas of safety & useful resources.
Be aware of your surroundings
Look up and down the street, keep an eye on your teammates, and look beyond your group. Slightly open your vehicle’s windows so you can hear what’s going on outside. If you pay attention to how the nationals are responding, you can pick up on clues that might indicate danger.
Avoid crowds and demonstrations
Be especially careful in markets and stay close to our team and ministry hosts.
Avoid drawing attention to yourself
Tourists are targets, so try to blend in by looking confident and dressing modestly according to the locally accepted dress code. Other tips: • Be aware of the volume of the nationals’ conversation and follow in suit. • Limit luggage, personal articles, & spending money • Take cheap cameras - consider leaving your most expensive camera at home