Health & Safety Travel Document: Barbados Cultural Exchange & Tech Project

Document Purpose: This document provides essential health and safety information and guidelines for students participating in the Barbados Cultural Exchange & Tech Project. Your well-being is our top priority, and adherence to these guidelines is crucial for a safe and successful trip.

1. Emergency Contact Information:

2. Before You Travel (Pre-Departure Checklist):

Passport & Visa:

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure from Barbados.
• UK citizens do not typically need a visa for tourist stays up to 6 months in Barbados. However, confirm any changes directly with the Barbados High Commission in London if you have specific circumstances or non-UK nationality.
• Make digital and physical copies of your passport and flight tickets. Keep copies separate from originals.

Travel Insurance:

• Mandatory: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, repatriation, personal liability, and travel disruptions. Carry your insurance policy number and emergency contact details with you.

Health & Vaccinations:

• Consult your GP or a travel clinic before travel for advice on recommended vaccinations
• Discuss any pre-existing medical conditions with your GP and carry sufficient supplies of prescription medications with you, along with a copy of your prescription. Keep medication in original packaging.
• Inform the Program Lead in advance of any allergies, medical conditions, or dietary requirements.

Money:

• Barbadian Dollar (BBD) is the local currency, fixed to the US Dollar (1 USD = 2 BBD). USD is widely accepted.
• Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid card blocks.
• Carry a mix of payment methods (credit/debit cards, some local currency).

Packing Essentials:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for a tropical climate.
• Sunscreen (high SPF), sun hat, sunglasses.
• Insect repellent (containing DEET or Picaridin).
• Basic first-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, anti-diarrhoea medication).
• Reusable water bottle.
• Adaptor for Type A/B sockets (North American standard).

Pre-Travel Briefing:

• Attend all mandatory pre-departure briefings. This document will be reviewed and discussed.

3. During Your Trip (On-Location Safety & Well-being):

General Personal Safety:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night.
• Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, particularly after dark.
• Keep valuables out of sight and use hotel safes.
• Do not accept drinks or food from strangers.
• Report any suspicious activity to the Program Lead immediately.

Health & Hydration:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of bottled or filtered water. Tap water in Barbados is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is recommended for peace of mind.
• Sun Protection: The sun is strong. Wear high-factor sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, and seek shade during peak hours (10 am – 3 pm). Sunstroke and severe sunburn can occur quickly.
• Insect Bites: Dengue fever and Zika virus are present in Barbados. Use insect repellent consistently, especially at dawn and dusk. Wear long sleeves/trousers in evenings if possible.

Food & Water Safety:

• Eat at reputable establishments.
• Wash hands frequently, especially before eating.
• Exercise caution with street food (ensure it’s freshly cooked).

Swimming & Water Safety:

• Always swim in designated areas.
• Be aware of currents and waves. Do not swim alone.
• Avoid touching coral, sea urchins, or marine life that could sting or bite.
• Do not swim after consuming alcohol.

Medical Attention:

• For minor issues, contact the Program Lead.
• For emergencies, the Program Lead will assist in contacting local services (Barbados: Police: 211, Fire: 311, Ambulance: 511) and arranging appropriate medical care. Ensure your insurance details are accessible.

Local Laws & Culture:

• Drugs: Barbados has a zero-tolerance policy towards illegal drugs. Penalties for drug offences are severe, including lengthy prison sentences.
• Dress Code: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or government buildings. Beachwear is for beaches only.
• Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Transportation:

• The program has designated transportation throughout the trip
• Use reputable taxis (often marked with “Z” or “ZM” plates). Agree on fares before starting your journey.
• When travelling by public transport (buses), be mindful of your belongings.
• Driving is on the left-hand side of the road. Road conditions can vary.

Accommodation Safety:

• Keep your room locked at all times.
• Do not leave valuables unattended. All rooms are fitted with a safe for passport and key documents.
• Know your emergency exits.
• SECURITY IS ON SITE AT ALL TIMES including CCTV.

Communication:

• Keep your mobile phone charged.
• Inform the Program Lead if you plan to be away from the main group.
• Check in regularly with the Program Lead as per schedule.

4. Emergency Procedures:

Immediate Threat/Injury:

• Prioritise personal safety.
• If safe to do so, alert the nearest Program Lead.
• Dial Police: 211, Fire: 311, Ambulance: 511 if immediate professional help is needed.

Lost/Missing Person:

• Immediately inform the Program Lead. Provide details (last seen, clothing, itinerary).

Reporting Incidents:

• All incidents, no matter how minor, must be reported to the Program Lead immediately. This includes accidents, injuries, theft, harassment, or any situation that makes you feel unsafe.
• A formal incident report will be completed.

Crisis Management:

• In the event of a major crisis (e.g., natural disaster, security incident), follow all instructions from the Program Lead and local authorities. Be prepared for potential changes to itinerary or evacuation.

5. Important Reminders:

• Responsibility: You are expected to act responsibly around decisions of your own safety and well-being. Please exercise good judgment.
• Alcohol: Consumption of alcohol should be moderate and responsible. Excessive consumption compromises your safety and that of others.
• Behaviour: Maintain respectful and professional behaviour at all times, reflecting positively on yourself, your university, and the program.
• Duty of Care: The Program Leads have a duty of care. Your cooperation with their instructions is essential.
• CULTURAL VISITS: Transport will be provided. Please follow the guidelines of the venue and program lead.

Hurricane Season Information:

Here’s a summary of the advice you would typically find from the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and other travel advisories:

1. Hurricane Season in Barbados:

• Official Period: The Atlantic hurricane season officially runs from 1st June to 30th November each year.
• June Specifics: While June marks the start of the season, the peak of hurricane activity is typically later in the season (August to October). However, storms can form and affect the region in June. It’s less common for major hurricanes to directly hit Barbados in early June, but tropical storms or depressions are possible.

2. FCDO (Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office) Advice:

• The FCDO generally advises British nationals travelling during hurricane season to monitor local and international weather updates (e.g., from the Barbados Meteorological Services and the US National Hurricane Center – NHC).
• They typically recommend that you check with your tour operator or airline before travelling, especially if a storm is developing or forecast.
• FCDO advice will cover what to do if a hurricane is forecast or strikes during your visit, emphasizing following local authority instructions.

3. Key Preparedness for Travellers:

• Comprehensive Travel Insurance: This is paramount. Ensure your policy covers:
  • Medical emergencies and evacuation.
  • Travel disruption, delays, or cancellation due to natural disasters.
  • Loss of belongings.
  Some policies may have specific clauses regarding hurricane season, so read the fine print.
• Monitor Local Weather: Stay updated via local news channels, radio, and official meteorological services (Barbados Meteorological Services – metoffice.gov.bb). Many hotels also provide guests with updates.
• Follow Local Authorities: If a storm threatens, local authorities (such as the Department of Emergency Management – DEM Barbados) will issue advice and instructions. It is crucial to comply with these, which may include sheltering in place, moving to a designated hurricane shelter, or even evacuation.
• Hotel Procedures: Understand your hotel’s hurricane plan. They should have procedures for guests in case of a storm.
• Emergency Kit: Consider having a small personal emergency kit (e.g., a flashlight, basic first-aid, essential medications, a charged phone/power bank, some cash, copies of documents in a waterproof bag).
• Keep Family Informed: Let your family or friends in the UK know your travel plans and how you can be contacted.

In summary:

Travelling to Barbados in June means you are entering hurricane season. While June is not typically the most active month, vigilance is key. Always prioritize safety, have robust travel insurance, and be prepared to act on advice from local authorities and your travel providers. Check the latest FCDO travel advice for Barbados just before and during your trip for the most up-to-date information.