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The United States is generally a safe country. However, crime does exist; exercising a little caution will go a long way to keeping you safe at camp and during your travels afterwards. With that in mind, please read and follow the advice below.

General Safety Tips

• Be careful when traveling alone at night. Avoid empty streets, subway stops, and bus stops. It’s also important to always know where you’re going.
• Walk in a confident and purposeful manner.
• Do not display large amounts of money or other valuable possessions in public.
• Do not leave valuables unattended.
• Be especially careful in railway and bus stations. These are often crowded and may attract pickpockets.
• Trust your instincts. Always err on the side of caution.
• Beware of potential scams, such as people bumping into you. This could be a way to distract you while your wallet is being stolen.

If you are interested in learning more about how to be safe while in the U.S., check out the .

Bike Safety

Motorists in the U.S. are not always accustomed to sharing the road with bikes, so it is very important that you are cautious and alert when riding a bike. To ensure you stay safe while riding a bike, please read and follow this advice:

• In the U.S., bicyclists are considered vehicle operators and are required to follow and obey traffic laws, including stop signs and right-of-way rules.
• Always wear a helmet, even for short trips.
• Wear brightly colored clothing.
• Install reflectors and lights on the front and back of the bicycle, and always use lights at night.
• Avoid riding your bike at night if at all possible.
• Ride with the flow of traffic.
• Never ride on the highway or where there is not a bike lane or wide shoulder.
• Use hand signals so others can anticipate your actions.
• Check your tires, brakes, and gears regularly.

For information on bicycle safety, proper hand signals, and more, check out the following websites: & .

Motor Vehicle Safety

Every year, thousands of people are seriously injured or killed in road accidents in the U.S. Keep safe by following these guidelines:

• Wear your seat belt at all times. It can save your life; it is also the law.
• Obey the rules and speed limits posted on the road. Visit your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles website to learn about U.S. road signs.
• Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The injury, damage, and legal consequences can be severe. The legal limit for alcohol is very low; even one or two drinks can put you over.
• Do not drive when you are sleepy. If you find yourself losing concentration, pull off the road, lock the doors of your car, and take a nap.
• Do not use your mobile phone while driving. Use of hand-held mobile phones is illegal in many places, and even if you have a hands-free device, talking on the phone is a distraction.
• Never text while driving. In addition to being extremely dangerous, it is illegal in most states.
• Be prepared for bad weather and treacherous roads.
• Watch out for pedestrians, motorcycles, and bicycles.

Important Notes °®ÓÎÏ·ÏÂÔØ Driving in the U.S.:

• If traveling in the U.S. after camp, °®ÓÎÏ·ÏÂÔØ recommends that you use public transportation such as buses, trains, and planes whenever possible.
• If public transportation is not available and you choose to rent a vehicle, you must obtain the proper auto insurance that covers medical and liability requirements in your state.
• °®ÓÎÏ·ÏÂÔØ recommends purchasing more than the minimum requirement. Though it is more expensive, the coverage is essential if you are involved in an accident.
• Car rental companies may require an international permit in addition to your international driver’s license.
• Most car rental agencies will not rent an automobile to persons under 25 years of age.