Image: Paul-Daniel Florea/Istock.com via AFP Relaxnews

You may have researched the best ramen shops to hit in Tokyo or the top museums to visit in London, but do you know what number to call in the event of an emergency in your destination country? Or how to contact your local embassy or consulate? The American Red Cross has released a list of helpful tips on how to have a safe summer vacation, because when planning a trip, travelers are more often preoccupied with what to do than what to do if things go awry.

Here are a few reminders on how to plan a safe holiday:

– If your destination is prone to natural disasters (tsunamis, volcanic activity, hurricane, earthquakes), read up on basic tips on what to do in the face of an emergency. For instance, during an earthquake, it’s advised to drop, cover and seek protection under a sturdy piece of furniture.

– If your summer travel destination is a particularly hot one, it’s advised to stay hydrated, wear loose, lightweight and light-colored clothing during a heat wave and to eat small meals more often.

– If you’re an American traveler, enter your travel details with the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, which allows the State Department to better assist you in the case of an emergency while abroad.

– Keep contact details for the nearest embassy or consulate on you as you travel in case of emergency.

– Look up the 911 equivalent for your destination country and keep the numbers handy while your travel.

– Be aware that for some countries, passports must be valid for at least six months.

– Let your credit card company know that you will be traveling out of the country. Otherwise, you risk having your card blocked while abroad should the bank deem your foreign transactions suspicious activity. This is especially true if you don’t travel outside your country often.

– Pack your International Certificate of Vaccination or the yellow card.

– The American Red Cross also has a first aid app that tells users what to do in the case of everyday emergencies. JB

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