Safety, Health & Security Links
The best way to stay safe is to be informed and educated. These links will give you the most up-to-date information:
General Travel Safety Tips
- Register your trips with the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). Incidents can occur anywhere, and this way you can be notified of any security messages sent out to U.S. citizens abroad. Citizens of other countries can check with their embassy for similar registry services.
- Make two copies of all pertinent immigration documents (e.g. passport bio-data page, visa, etc.). Carry one set with you during your trip—but keep it separate from your other travel documents—and leave one set with family or a trusted friend in the U.S.
- Exercise caution when traveling, and avoid protests.
- Be prepared for extra screening at the airport and carry your immigration documentation in a safe place.
- Communicate your travel plans with your family and a trusted friend, and create check-in procedures for your flights.
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Know Your Surroundings. Do research before you travel to another location. Consult U.S. Department of State country-specific safety information and OSAC Crime and Safety Reports for all places you will visit.
- The university offers international insurance to all those traveling overseas under W&M sponsored travel. It is required to have this before you travel overseas
W&M Resources
- Consider whether you need to carry electronic devices, such as a cell phone or laptop. And if you do, be sure to protect yourself by practicing these safe electronic travel processes as outlined on the Export Control website.
- If you encounter issues while traveling abroad, contact W&M Police at 757-221- 4596.
- Memorize the phone numbers of your trusted friend, an attorney, or W&M police, in the event you are held for secondary inspection at the airport.
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If you have questions about international travel or available resources, please call the international travel and security manager at 757-221-1146
U.S. Department of State
- U.S. Department of State Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP): Sign up for this free program that provides up-to-date information about travel alerts & warnings that can be tailored to your individual plans
- U.S. State Department Alerts & Travel Warnings
- Help from the U.S. State Department in an Emergency
- U.S. Students Abroad Information about how to stay safe overseas
- Travelers with Disabilities
Centers for Disease Control - Information for Travelers
- CDC Destination Guide Travel health information by location
- CDC Vaccination Information Vaccination information by country, checklists and other helpful information
International Resources
The Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC): Global security news and reports
- OSAC Travel Safety Reference Guide Travel safety reference guide with lists of best practices for planning safe travel abroad
World Health Organization International Travel and Health Site Health risks for travelers, travel requirements, and recommendations
Transportation
Transportation Security Administration Restrictions, tips and more for air and other modes of travel
