Did you know?
Heading outside of Canada? Even if you’re visiting a familiar destination, a thorough health and safety check is essential before you depart. Stay updated on the latest travel advisories, as several regions are currently experiencing critical shortages of fuel, clean water, and electricity. In high-risk areas, these shortages may impact essential services and the availability of basic supplies.
Travel advice and advisories
The Government of Canada’s official source of travel information and advice, the Travel Advice and Advisories (www.travel.gc.ca) will help you in making informed decisions regarding your health and safety before travelling outside of Canada. Ensure to check often for updates, because health, safety and security conditions may change. In addition, check often for essential advice for safe travel outside of Canada at the Global Affairs Canada website (www.international.gc.ca).
Embassies and consulates
Find out where to contact Canadian government offices, located near your destination. As well, keep this information with you and keep a copy at home and/or work.
Health insurance and healthcare facilities
Before you venture on your travels, make sure you’re prepared for the unexpected. Confirm that your health insurance provides coverage at your destination, and take a moment to locate nearby hospitals or clinics. Knowing the quality of care available near your lodging ensures you won’t be left searching for answers in an emergency.
Weather outside Canada
Before you travel, check your destination(s) on Travel Advice and Advisories (www.travel.gc.ca), as well as on weather apps etc. for severe storms, such as hurricanes/cyclones/typhoons, monsoons and tornadoes, which can happen anywhere at any given time.
Travel smart: Stay fire safe
Choose a hotel/motel that is protected by hardwired smoke alarms and automatic fire sprinklers in every guest room. Many hotels/motels, particularly outside of Canada and the United States lack consistent fire protection, such as hardwired smoke alarms and automatic fire sprinklers in every guest room. Safety standards vary globally, and older or smaller properties might not have these life-saving features.
Hotel/motel evacuation plan
Upon checking in at your hotel/motel—regardless of whether you are within Canada or outside—always take a few moments after your arrival to review the following:
- Fire Evacuation Plan in your room; it is usually posted on the back of the door.
- Note the location of the smoke alarm inside your room and find the two closest fire exits; if staying above the ground floor, locate the two closest emergency staircases.
- Always count the doors between your room and the fire exits (helps in smoke or darkness situations)
- Locate the nearby fire alarm pull stations and fire extinguishers.
Remember, taking the time to learn and practice injury prevention costs you nothing. Failing to do so, could lead to the unthinkable … the loss of your life and the lives of those you hold dear.
Safety—it starts with you.
