It’s better to be safe and knowledgeable than sorry. Bookmark this guide so you know what to do in an emergency while travelling.
We see that you’re packing your luggage and travelling again. Good for you! It’s exciting to visit a new destination or explore old favourites. Now, we know disasters and emergencies are the last things you want to think about when you’re on holiday. However, anything can happen, so it’s better to be prepared. Here’s our handy guide in case of natural and manmade disasters while you’re abroad.
Before you set off…
While researching your travel destination, it’s important to note the worst times to visit the country. For example, July and August are peak typhoon seasons in Taiwan, while it starts in May for Hong Kong. Here are other vital things you should know so that you’re better prepared in the event of a crisis.
Travel insurance: This can be a divisive topic for travellers, with some considering it a bane rather than a boon. However, surely you know at least one person who has benefitted from purchasing travel insurance. This ensures you’re protected before, during, and after your trip. Go through the available coverage options and choose the one that suits you (and your travel itinerary).
Register with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: It’s said that this is one step most Singaporeans (like yours truly) fail to take. But it’s an important procedure before embarking on overseas travel. The information you provide allows the ministry to contact you in an emergency; they will check to see that you’re safe, render assistance if necessary, and notify your loved ones. You can do it via the website.
On that note, remember to contact the Singapore Embassy or High Commission in the country you’re travelling to in the event of a disaster.
Inform your emergency contacts: Share your travel itinerary with them so they’ll know where you’re headed.
Prepare a handy kit: Make copies of your essential documents, pack items like medication and plasters, and don’t forget the extra cash. Oh, be sure that your portable banks are full of juice, too. Dump everything in a light bag so it’s easy to carry around if you’re required to evacuate.
Memorise or have a physical copy of emergency contact information: Eventually, your portable charger and mobile phone will run out of battery. It’s important to jot down important numbers so that you can reach out to them easily if that happens.
What to do when a disaster strikes while you’re travelling
In an earthquake
Remember these three steps: drop to the ground, take cover under sturdy furniture like a table, and hold on until the shaking stops. Don’t stand near a doorframe as it might not be supported enough to protect you. Stay clear of glass, windows, doors, and anything that can fall on you. Remain indoors until it’s safe to go outside, and use the stairs to exit the building. Avoid the elevators!
If you’re outdoors, get to an open area away from buildings, streetlights, trees, and utility wires. If you’re in a moving vehicle, stop somewhere safe – again, away from the things previously mentioned and underpasses – and stay in the vehicle.
Those trapped under rubble should remain calm, not move around too much, and cover their mouths with clothing so that dust doesn’t get in. When a rescue mission occurs, tap on nearby debris to inform them of your location. Shout only as a last resort, as you might inhale dust.
In a tsunami
It’s easy to spot the early warning signs of an impending tsunami. Observe the receding water; if it exposes the ocean floor, fish, and reefs, that’s your cue to run as far as possible. An approaching tsunami sounds like a loud train or jet aircraft. Don’t wait for evacuation orders! Get inland (two to three kilometres) or move to higher ground (at least 30 metres above sea level) immediately and stay there until you get the all-clear.
In a hurricane
Do you recall that scene in The Devil Wears Prada when Meryl Streep claims “it’s just drizzling” when, in fact, it’s a hurricane taking place outside? This natural disaster is a cyclone that forms over tropical or subtropical waters. If you’re trapped in a hurricane zone, inform your family members as soon as possible. Stay away from the beach, as there’s a possibility of flooding. Remain indoors until the all-clear announcement is made. Quickly secure a seat on the next available flight if you can evacuate before the hurricane hits.
In a flood
Heavy flooding can occur in the event of a tsunami or hurricane. Should that happen while you’re overseas, move to higher ground until a rescue team arrives. Don’t attempt to swim or walk through the water, as flood currents may be stronger than you think. Stay away from power lines and watch out for wildlife like snakes and crocodiles. If you come into contact with flood water, thoroughly clean yourself after the ordeal. This is because the water can carry sewage, chemicals, and other nasties.
If you’re in a vehicle, stop the car and stay put. You might end up stranded somewhere else if you continue moving. Don’t even think about driving through bridges, as the flood currents will make them unstable.
In a volcanic eruption
So you’re travelling to a country where there’s a volcano. You may be thinking: it’s dormant, surely the chance of an eruption is low, right? Perhaps, but you may never know when nature strikes. If there’s a volcanic eruption, get out of the danger zone immediately. Head indoors and close all doors and windows. Even then, you’re still at risk of being exposed to volcanic ash, flying rocks, and poisonous gases, so cover your face with a damp cloth or a dust mask, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, and skip the contact lenses. Stay informed of updates and instructions.
In a fire
Do you know that fire moves very fast? It can occur naturally due to lightning strikes or can be manmade through arson, accidental ignition, or industrial accidents. Regardless, it’s important to know what to do should this disaster take place.
If a fire starts, alert everyone and quickly get them to safety. Take note of the evacuation route and avoid the lifts. Also, don’t try to open closed doors that are warm to the touch. If there’s smoke in the stairwell, stay put and don’t backtrack. If you must escape, get low under the smoke, stay close to the walls, and make your way to the exit. Once you get to ground level, call the fire department.
In the event that you’re trapped, place a wet towel or blanket under the door and run to the nearest safe room, preferably with a window. Don’t attempt to climb or jump out of the building! Shut the door but don’t lock it, open the window, and signal for help.
Should your clothes catch fire, stop what you’re doing, drop to the ground (cover your face if possible), and roll until the fire is extinguished. Cool the burned skin with water and call for immediate attention.
In a manmade disaster
What falls under this category? Well, we’re referring to crimes, civil disorder, and the like. Take note of these essential tips to remain safe.
Terrorism: This includes bomb scares, bombings, kidnappings, assassinations, hijackings, and more. While the police and other officials are well-equipped to handle these scenarios, it’s good to be prepared. Be aware of your surroundings, never accept packages from strangers, and report any suspicious characters to the relevant authorities. Don’t leave your luggage unattended. Trust your instincts – if you’re uncomfortable or feel something isn’t right, leave.
Crime: Similarly, if you notice anything suspicious, flag it to the officials. If there’s a stabbing or shooting where you’re at, get away from the perpetrators immediately. Call the police and keep a lookout for the criminals. Note anything that makes them identifiable and assist the officials when they arrive. If you can’t get outside in time, take refuge in a central and secure area and barricade. Silence your phone and lay low.
If someone’s been stabbed or shot, apply pressure to the wound to stop or slow down the blood. Lie them down and keep them warm by wrapping them in a coat or blanket. Don’t remove any object in the wound as it could worsen the bleeding. Help keep them calm until the ambulance arrives.
Vacations are meant to be happy, but on rare occasions, unforeseen circumstances can arise. Whether it’s a natural or manmade disaster, these tips will hopefully equip you with what to do if anything happens. Stay safe and remain vigilant, travellers.
