Motor Vehicles

Accidents are the leading cause of death among travelers under the age of 55. A study of Peace Corps volunteers confirmed that automobile accidents are the #2 killer of younger people, followed by motorcycle accidents, drownings and suicides. An additional study revealed that many tourist-involved road accidents were single-car collisions. Loss of driver control, resulting from fatigue, alcohol and unfamiliar road conditions, was described as the cause.

Drive defensively, don't drink and drive. Drive only when alert and well rested; know the foreign street signs; study the map and know your route; and always remember...wear your seat belts!

Fire Injuries

Fire injuries are a significant cause of trauma and death among travelers. Protect yourself by inquiring whether or not hotels have smoke detectors and sprinkler systems; if in doubt, bring your own smoke detectors and never smoke in bed. Upon arriving at a new destination, look for your primary and secondary escape routes. Remember, to escape a fire in your room, drop to the floor and crawl low under the smoke. If the fire is outside your door, always feel the door for heat before opening. Wet towels and wet clothing offer some protection if the fire is unavoidable.

Violence

Risk for assault or terrorist attack varies from country to country; avoid going out at night in unfamiliar or unsafe areas, and avoid going out alone. If approached or confronted by a robber, do not resist; give up your valuables. Seek and heed advice from locals and tour guides about areas to avoid. When in doubt, use your nearest U.S. Embassy or Consul for advice.

Other

Other major causes of disease, injury or death include illness from swimming in contaminated water as well as drowning in unfamiliar or unsafe areas. Is the water potentially contaminated? Water may be contaminated with fecal material from sewage and contain disease-causing bacteria and viruses, such as schistosomiasis, and pathogenic amoebic organisms, etc. There may be dangerous currents, tides and surf. Generally, ask the locals before you enter the water.

Protection against potentially hazardous drugs is nonexistent in some countries. Do not buy medications "over the counter" unless you are familiar with the product.