Security tips for business travel in high risk areas

As the increase in the number of export opportunities for companies in developing markets grows, so to does the personal risk of doing business in these high risk areas overseas. Whether you are travelling individually, as a group or on a trade mission, there are certain markets in which you need to factor in your own personal safety and that of your colleagues.

As part of your market entry preparation, it is just as important to be aware of some of the personal risks of doing business in a particular market. We are not saying that you should avoid these markets, however with the support of Strategy Protect, a privately owned Security Consultation firm,  below are some very useful tips that you should include as part of any pre departure preparation.

SECURITY TIPS FOR BUSINESS TRAVEL IN HIGH RISK AREAS

1. Useful information for your travel

• It is important before you travel you look at the Australian Government website further for their travel recommendations and warnings.
• Mobile phone - Roaming activated and charged battery.  If you are travelling to remote areas, use a satellite phone.
• Ensure you are up-to-date with immunizations and have malaria tablets if required for that country.
• 24/7 Australian Consular Assistance for Foreign Travel is +61 2 6261 3305
• Knowledge about emergency numbers (Police and Ambulance Service)
• Find out the location of police station, service station, hospital and 24 hour Pharmacy closest to the hotel.
• Make sure your travel insurance covers you where you will be travelling and you can increase your cover to encompass potential threats.
• Establish a meeting point in case any member of the group is lost.
• If you rent a vehicle, it is preferable to rent a 4x4 with a GPS navigation system; if not, arrange the hotel taxi to collect you from the airport and ideally secure a hotel driver for the duration and take your own GPS.

2. Walking in the street

• Do not fall into a routine in your activities and movements and do not comment in public about your activities.
• Avoid walking during the night; you will be an easy potential target.
• Walk in groups and try not to go too far from the pack.
• Do not carry or wear valuables.
• Walk along the roadside opposite the direction of traffic, this measure helps to prevent being followed and "express kidnappings".
• Do not visit the main squares and government buildings during demonstrations. 
• Do not give money to beggars, adult or children. They are often associated with criminal organisations.

3. Driving

• Avoid driving at night and early morning.
• Check the vehicle before using it; wheels, fluid levels, lights, fuel and tools.
• Trips to remote areas:  Travel with at least two vehicles and provide your itinerary to your company or the embassy.
• If you have a breakdown on the road, you will be an easy potential target.  If it’s a flat tyre, consider continuing until the service station.
• Keep the fuel tank above half and pack water and food. Carry a first aid kit.
• With manual cars, if you have to stop the car, always set it in first-gear.
• Drive with the boot and doors locked and windows up to stop anyone attempting to enter the car when stopped at traffic lights or stuck in congestion. 
• In the city, when the light is red, try to keep your car in the middle lanes, thieves usually attack from the sidewalk.
• Watch for any vehicles that may follow, if monitored, do not change the way you are driving and try to get all the information possible (number of people, car and registration) and go straight the nearest police station.
• Do not stop to help someone on the road; criminals use women and children to ambush.

4. Parking

• Use parking lots with a security service.
• Do not leave bags or valuables in sight inside the car. 
• Never remain inside the parked car, if you do you become the perfect victim.
• Always park your car facing the exit as it is the fastest and safest way to leave.

5. At the ATM

• You should avoid using ATMs. Use only ATMs in supermarkets, shopping malls or other places where there are security personnel.
• When making payments with your credit card, only pay when your card is in front of you (ie the card machine) as your cards could be cloned or duplicated without your knowledge.

6. Documentation

• Bring a photocopy of your passport and another form of photo ID (both certified by a JP) for easy identification in case of a lost or stolen passport.
• Travel insurance documents.

7. Health service

• Ensure you have advised your Health Insurance Provider of your travel and extend the policy if necessary (compare this with the travel insurance).
• If you are receiving any ongoing treatment, bring enough medication for the trip in case you cannot find the same medicine in the country you are visiting.

Don’t react to physical attacks; the main objective is to survive the assault.

José M. Bravo
Managing Director
www.strategyprotect.com