Safety

In general, the United States is a very safe place. You should feel comfortable in your host community. However, it is always a good idea to keep security and safety in mind, especially when traveling after your program has ended. Overall, you will find this country full of warm, friendly people who will enjoy meeting you, sharing their culture with you, and learning about your culture. By using common sense, you will be able to avoid most difficulties and have a wonderful, safe time in the United States.

• Do not hitchhike - it is illegal and dangerous.
• Do not accept rides from strangers.
• Do not walk across highways or jaywalk.
• Do not jog or walk alone at night.
• Do not carry more money than you will need for the day.
• Do not accept any form of money from strangers.
• Do not carry your passport with you if you don't need it. Carry a different form of identification, such as your driver's license or a copy of your passport.
• Protect your personal ID and confidential information: your Social Security number is yours alone. Do not allow others to use your number. Record your number in a safe place in case your card is lost or stolen. Protect both your card and your number to prevent misuse.
• During local emergencies, obey all warnings and advice from authorities and AHA.
• Internet Safety: Don't respond to emails from strangers, or provide personal information over the Internet unless on a trusted website with appropriate security.
• Avoid parks, woods and remote areas when you are alone, especially at night.
• Be alert to your surroundings when using an ATM. Take extra caution at night.
• Always let someone know where you are going and when you will return. Contact them if your plans change.
• Always wear a bike helmet and obey all traffic laws when riding a bike. Use lights and reflective clothing at night.
• If you feel you are being followed, cross the street and observe what the other person does. Put space between yourself and the person following you. Pretend to see a friend, even if it is a person you do not know and call out or wave to that person. You should try to attract attention and scare away the person following you. If a store, restaurant or business nearby is open, go inside and ask for help.
• If you think you are being followed while driving, drive to the nearest police or fire station.
• Remember that cars drive on the right side of the road in the USA.
• Notify the authorities and AHA immediately if you are threatened by your employer, colleagues, landlord or anyone else.
• Do not engage in threatening, immature, unlawful or antisocial behavior.
• Be careful if drinking in a bar or restaurant. Watch your drink at all times, stay sober, and do not leave with anyone you don't already know.
• Do not get into a car with anyone who has been drinking.