For many young people spring break is a chance to get away from the watchful eyes of their parents and get a taste of autonomy. But this independence comes with risks. At home when you get in trouble or things start to feel out of control your parents are only a phone call away. In another state or country reliable help isn’t so close.
Have an Emergency Plan
If you go away for spring break you need to have an emergency plan. You need to have a reliable emergency contact close by and you need to stay in close contact with your parents. If you do not have a chaperone find out if any of your friends do and ask if you can use that person as your emergency contact. Make sure the chaperone knows how to contact your parents and has your health information. Be sure that the chaperone knows about any medications you are taking or allergies you have and ensure that they have access to your travel insurance information.Your hotel is another possible emergency contact. Let the concierge know that you are traveling without an adult and ask if you can use the hotel management as an emergency contact. Give the management the same information listed above. If privacy is a concern leave your essential information in a sealed envelope with instructions that it only be opened if there is an emergency or if you go missing. When you check out of the hotel make sure you take the envelope with you.
Know How to Get Help
Do not depend on travel companions to be your emergency contact. If you are traveling in North America find out the non-emergency number of the local police as soon as you arrive in town and program it in your cell phone. In an emergency don’t hesitate to call 911. If you are traveling abroad make sure you know how to contact your local embassy as well as authorities. Find out what the general emergency number is and carry it with you at all times; it may not be 911.
Keep Your Parents in the Loop
Before you leave check travel bulletins for your destination; a travel agent or travel web site can help you do this. Make sure that you, your travel companions and your parents are aware of all travel advisories. Make sure that your parents have the contact information for your hotel and a detailed list of your itinerary including when your flights leave and arrive. Make sure your parents know your flight numbers and the airline that you are traveling with and if this changes for any reason contact them immediately.Cell phones work all over the world these days. In an emergency don’t worry about how much it costs to call for help or to call home. Your safety is invaluable. Carry your cell phone with you at all times. Identify your parents’ phone numbers in your address book with the labels EMEGENCY CONTACT 1- Mom, EMERGENCY CONTACT 2 – Dad, etc. This will make it easier for emergency personnel to know who to contact if you are unable to tell them.
Spring break vacations can be full of fun memories but you have to play it safe. The most popular spring break destinations attract thousands of young people every year but they also attract trouble. The best way to keep your spring break memories from turning in to nightmares is to have a solid emergency plan in place before you need it and to stay in close contact with home while you are away. Plan for the worst but look forward to the best.