• Please remember that if you are traveling, you should leave a number with your host family where you can be reached. If host families and Au Pairs are traveling together, please leave an emergency number with your counselor.
• Documents: If you haven't made photocopies of your most important documents (passport and visas), remember to do so before you take those documents on a trip. In case of loss or theft, the photocopies cannot substitute for originals, but they may help you get replacement papers sooner.
• For up-to-the-minute information from the U.S. government about airports across the U.S., visit http://www.fly.faa.gov/flyfaa/usmap.jsp.

Crime Prevention Tips for Travelers:

Please keep the following pointers in mind as you travel:

• Stay alert.
• Never leave your luggage unattended.
• Don't put any valuables in luggage that you check.
• Keep your travel tickets, passport and visa in a safe closed bag or pocket, not sticking out of an outer pocket.
• Never carry a large amount of cash – use traveler's checks whenever you can.
• Carry your cash separate from your wallet. Keep both in an inner or front pocket.
• Carry handbags and cameras close to you, not hanging by a long strap.
• Don't put valuables in an easy-to-reach backpack.

Be aware of possible pickpockets. Watch for teams of two or three people, male or female, who may be:

• riding escalators repeatedly in a short period of time
• hanging around crowded areas, such as baggage carousels, newsstands, and restaurants
• changing seats or constantly walking in and out of line in waiting areas
• carrying coats or jackets over their arms
• appearing to use their hand, head or eyes to signal others or to accidentally bump into others.

If you are bumped or distracted by a stranger, be aware that a pickpocket may be targeting you. Stay alert!

Remember the THREE BASIC RULES of safety no matter where you are:

Do stay alert. Keep your mind on your surroundings and who is around you.

Do communicate the message that you're calm, confident, and know where you are going. Stand tall, and walk purposefully.

Do trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable in a place or situation, leave.