Students should be aware that natural disasters or political events such as strikes in their host country might be reported in the news at home. News accounts often give a distorted picture of events and may alarm your family and friends.

• Keep in touch with family and friends and give them your sense of the local situation.  
• Use mature judgment in deciding how to deal with any unusual event in your area.

When you have questions, the ISEP coordinator at your host institution is a primary source of information and support. Be sure that your parents know how to reach both your home and host institution ISEP coordinator if they have particular concerns.

Crisis Awareness

If a crisis occurs in a country you are visiting:

• Contact your family to reassure them regarding your safety.  
• Contact your embassy or consulate if you need help.  
• Keep informed about the crisis by monitoring your embassy's Web site and by listening to BBC broadcasts.

Note for U.S. Citizens

The U.S. State Department Bureau of Consular Affairs Web site www.travel.state.gov provides important information on crisis awareness and the services provided to U.S. citizens abroad. Links to additional information provided by the Department of State are available in the Country Handbooks.
You should:

• Be sure to register with the nearest embassy or consulate by phone, fax or in person.  
• Monitor the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs home page and the home page for the U.S. Embassy in your host country for up-to-date information.