Attachment V

Texas State University

Emergency Management Plan for Study Abroad

1.0 Purpose and Objectives

Safety is a primary concern of all who are involved in study abroad ventures. Although most believe that study abroad is no more dangerous than study in the United States, the post 9/11 world presents unique situations. There are risks unique to many overseas settings, and when an incident occurs, the impact upon participants and their families is often more profound because of the unfamiliar context and the distance separating them from their primary source of consolation and support.

Promoting health and safety is paramount to Texas State study abroad programs. The objective of this plan is to provide the most effective and immediate response and assistance to study abroad participants in the event of an emergency or emergency situation.

2.0 International SOS

The Office of Study Abroad Programs has engaged International SOS, a travel assistance company, to provide service coverage for Texas State faculty and students participating in study abroad programs.

International SOS will assist in a variety of emergency situations from point of incident to point of care. International SOS is NOT health insurance; it is a travel assistance program. Texas State travelers should maintain their own personal health insurance and determine how their health insurance program applies to medical care prior to traveling.

Prior to Departure, view the International SOS portal to determine:

· Medical and security issues for the country being visited (sign up for

· e-mail alerts)

· Recommended immunizations

· Nearest SOS Alarm Center to destination

· Obtain medical referral (local option or SOS Clinic) to be used in country

· Complete the Emergency Record and Personal Travel Record

· Obtain copies of all travel documents and carry them on the excursion

· If final destination is remote, determine if satellite communication is required or recommended.

3.0 Conditions Requiring Emergency Management

Though not comprehensive, the following list provides some guidance regarding the types of emergency situations that might occur. The participant may require emergency assistance for other unforeseen situations.

· A serious illness or injury;

· A death;

· Emotional or psychological stress that that may affect the health and safety of program participants and require professional attention;

· Becoming a crime victim (theft, assault, rape, harassment, etc.) or suspect in a crime;

· A situation in-country that causes serious concern, such as a political uprising or a natural disaster;

· Kidnapping;

· Other problems that seriously threaten the well-being of students, faculty or staff;

· Other problems that may have legal implications or may cause significant financial loss to Texas State; and

· A family emergency at home.

4.0 Emergency Procedures

4.1 In the event of an emergency or emergency situation, a study abroad participant (faculty or student) should follow the steps listed here:

a. Contact the nearest International SOS Office (24-hour basis). Participants should have their name and Scholastic Group Comprehensive Service Number (located on the participant’s International SOS card) ready.

· Philadelphia – +1 215 942 8226

· London – +44 20 8762 8008

· Singapore – +65 6338 7800

· http://internationalsos.com/en/index.htm?CFID=11800832&CFTOKEN=50765792

b. If a student is on a faculty-led program, attempt to contact the faculty person in charge.

c. During normal Texas State business hours, contact the Study Abroad Office, 512-245-1967 or 512-245-2322. If busy or no answer, contact the Texas State University Police Department (UPD) at 512-245-2805.

d. Outside of regular Texas State business hours, contact the Texas State University Police Department (UPD) at 512-245-2805.

4.2 International SOS will provide direct or on-site assistance to the participant. Once contacted, the Study Abroad Office or UPD will coordinate with the Dean of Students Office or other Texas State student service agency as necessary.