There are some very cool things about traveling abroad but also there are challenges. And when crisis strikes — natural or political disaster, war or otherwise — U.S. citizens can be in desperate need of relief. Fortunately, American passengers in distress can always get help from the U.S. Department of State. Here’s what the State Department can do for Americans in crisis overseas, who you can expect from them, and how to be prepared in this article.
1. U.S. Citizens Abroad, Emergency Assistance For U.S. Citizens Abroad (USAC)
US State Department Emergency Assistance in Crisis — The U.S. This can include:
- Coordinating Evacuations: The State Department can coordinate evacuations from a dangerous location.
- Preparing Safe Sites: Agency can notify about safe places or hospitals in the vicinity.
- To Put You in Touch With Family or Friends: If you are separated from family or friends, the State Department can put you in touch.
If you want to receive assistance quickly in case of an emergency, all U.S. travelers should sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). The State Department can use this free service to provide timely safety notifications and locate you if you are lost.
2. Travel Warnings and Alerts
Before you go abroad, know the risks. The US State Department constantly has travel warnings that inform citizens about what the country has to offer. These advisories can range from:
- Level 1 (Take Normal Cautions) – It’s never a problem to travel.
- Level 4 (Don’t Go) – Do not go to the area as it is dangerous.
These travel warnings can be helpful when it comes to emergencies of a natural disaster, political turmoil, or medical issues in a certain area. Though the State Department gives these updates, it is up to you as a traveller whether or not to travel.
3. What to Say to the State Department When There’s a Crisis
If you have an emergency in the United States, there are a few ways you can reach out to the State Department:
Task Force Alert:
The State Department may send out the Task Force Alert during a crisis. On this site, you can tell them that you or a loved one are in a crisis region. This is the data that consular staff uses to track down US citizens and provide relief. But this system doesn’t send a notification to local authorities, so if you need medical or police help quickly, call local police directly.
Crisis Email:
Sometimes the State Department will create a crisis email. — Email to this address and you’ll be sent the most recent news and how to get support. The email might even request information such as where you live and if there is a pressing situation to help in any way.
Phone: For assistance, call the U.S. Department of State at:
- 1-888-407-4747 (outside of the United States or Canada)
- +1-202-501-4444 (from outside the U.S.)
But remember, with big emergency, the phone line might be full so don’t be surprised if wait time is longer than normal. Use email or a tool on the internet if you can.
If you are not a U.S. citizen, check with your embassy or consulate for assistance. For those not of American nationality, non-US agencies such as the Red Cross can be called for further assistance.
4. What the State Department Can’t Do
The State Department can be a lifeline in an emergency, but it has a price:
No Legal Overreach:
The State Department cannot become a litigant or overrule the laws of foreign governments. If you are arrested or suing, they can give you a directory of attorneys near you, but they cannot represent you and they can’t get you out of jail.
Resources:
There are not enough resources for the US government to go around, and in large-scale disasters the number of people they can provide support might be small. Sometimes they might not have access to remote or populated locations.
Moreover, the State Department might be able to advise and help during a crisis, but it cannot substitute for emergency services or the police. You need to seek medical attention or are under security, but first, you should call local authorities.
5. What To Know About Travelling Abroad and How To Stay Safe And Prepared
If you want to be protected, and prepared in case of an emergency, read these steps before you go abroad:
- STEP Enrollment: By joining the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), you’ll get a phone call from the State Department in an emergency and travel information.
- Check Travel Warnings: Check the U.S. State Department’s travel warnings for current safety information on where you’re going before leaving home.
- Buy Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance will take care of anything from medical problems to trip cancellations to give you that extra layer of security while you’re on the road.
If you’re aware, enrolled in STEP, and have the right travel insurance, you are at least less risk and better prepared should something happen.
Nobody ever thinks of the worst in a foreign land, but knowing how the US State Department can help you in the event of a crisis is safest. Know their services, who to call in case of an emergency, and their limitations and you can fly with more confidence. Never forget to take the necessary measures, read up and plan for anything that might happen.
