2.

Safety and health in SkyTravel During Travel

2.1

Introduction

The Sky Travel has develop the system to make sure our clients to protect
their health while tranvelling with us. It includes essential information on
understanding travel health risks; taking preventive measures before,
during and after travel; coping with a health emergency abroad; and
accessing consular services in a health emergency. We encourage our
clients to take steps to reduce risk of illness and accidents while
travelling with us. With our guide line and preparation, it can protect our
clients against many common and preventable travel-related illnesses.
2.2

Before Travel

a. Individual pre-travel health assessment

There are probability that our clients can get risk of becoming sick or
injured while abroad depends on number of factors, including:
age;
sex;
immunization status;
current state of health and pre-existing medical conditions;
destination;
length of stay;
climate and season;
type of accommandation;
itinerary and activities; and
local condition.
Based on these factors, a health care provider that can assess
client needs and help to prevent illness and injury by providing:
vaccination against illnesses such as hepatitis, typhoid,
meningococcal disease, yellow fever and Japanese encephalitis;
preventive medication against malaria, gastrointestinal illnesses
and other conditions; and
information about general precautions you can take.
b. Give information to clients where to get travel health advice.
Consult with a health care provider or visit a travel health clinic for an
individual pre-travel health assessment, preferably six weeks before
travelling abroad. Some vaccines require more than one dose and
some cant be given at the same time as others. Individual pre-travel
health assessments and travel vaccinations may not be covered by
provincial health plans. During travelling abroad the risk to get a
number of illnesses is high. Immunization and malaria prevention also
important get up-to-date according the needs of individual health. The
following is an alphabetical list of diseases against which vaccination
may be recommended prior to travel:

chicken pox
cholera

diphtheria
German measles (rubella)
flu (influenza)
Haemophilus influenzae type b disease (Hib)
hepatitis A
hepatitis B
human papillomavirus (HPV)
Japanese encephalitis
measles
meningococcal disease
mumps
pneumococcal disease
polio
rabies

Before entering some countries, there are may be required to have an

International Certificate of Vaccination, or Prophylaxis, which is showing
that either the person received a yellow fever vaccination in the past
10 years. Other countries may require proof of yellow fever vaccination
if the person passed through an area where yellow fever may occur.
Without such proof, the person may be refused entry, quarantined or
vaccinated.
c. Malaria prevention
Malaria is a common and serious infection in many tropical and
subtropical countries, and it can be fatal. There is no vaccine available
against malaria. When travelling to an area where malaria occurs,
should always protect yourself against mosquito bites and take antimalarial medication, if recommended by a health care professional.
Anti-malarial medication decreases your risk but doesnt provide 100
percent protection against the disease. The medication must be taken
before, during and after travel. Consult a health care provider or travel
health clinic for an individual health assessment, preferably six weeks
before you travel, to determine your need for anti-malarial medication.
d. Travel health kit
Pack a travel health kit so that first aid supplies and medications will be
readily available in an emergency. A travel health kit should contain
enough supplies to handle minor injuries and illnesses (e.g. headaches,
diarrhea and allergies) and manage pre-existing medical conditions.
e. Waiver of Travel Insurance Coverage
Without Travel Insurance our customer not be protected for emergency
medical expences incurred while on your trip.
i.
Emergency Medical Evacuation
- to cover the cost of transport should you require emergency
medical treatment when appropriate care is not available
locally.
ii.
Baggage and Baggage Delay Trip Cancellation or Interruption

iii.
iv.
v.

2.3

To reimburse you for money lost if you must cancel or

interrupt your trip due to sickness; Injury; death or for other
non-medical reasons, such as: terrorist incidents, supplier
bankruptcy or default (for those plans which include this
coverage), cancellation of arrangements by your air carrier,
etc.
Travel Delay
- to reimburse you for additional expenses associated with a
travel delay.
Accident and Sickness Medical Expenses
to cover
- to reimburse you for your lost, damaged or delayed baggage.
During Travel

Sky Travel tour opens up a world of excitement, wonder and opportunity.

With that, there are inherent risks and rewards beyond which we could
reasonably expect by staying at home. Some of the reasons our clients
may be exposed to different and broader experiences and risks include:

Different countries having different laws and regulations governing

transport, infrastructure, safety etc, and may be lacking when
compared to laws you may have at home.
The itineraries we operate often times include strenuous activities and
physical demands beyond which you may usually partake in at home.
In addition, these activities are on occasion undertaken in remote and
isolated areas.
The political stability of some of the countries in which we operate can
be at times volatile.
Natural events such as hurricanes, earthquakes, storms, flooding etc
can happen the world over. Sometimes they strike in locations in which
we operate a tour. The remote location of some of our tours may
compound the impacts beyond the natural event itself.
Most of the people you meet on your travels will be genuine,
welcoming and honest. However, as anywhere, there is a small
element preying on the unsuspecting tourist.
The remote locations of some of our tours mean support and
assistance is not always readily available.
The infrastructure (hospitals, transport, emergency services etc) of
some of the countries we visit may be lacking when compared to the
ones you may have at home.

Sky Travel takes all reasonable measures to ensure our clients safety and
enjoyment while travelling with us. The aim of this document is to give
them an insight into ways may further enhance them own personal safety
while abroad.
"Service is our Strength. Travel is our Passion
a. First things first
There are a number of things that you may do before even leaving
home that will help you to have a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Take copies of your passport and other important documents with

you. This way, if you lose your documents, you can at least present
a copy to your embassy or consulate while abroad and have
replacement or temporary travel documents issued. A tip we
received from one of our seasoned travellers was to scan the
documents, and send them to your email. That way you have
additional access to them online.
We suggest registering your travel plans with your embassy or
consulate before leaving home. Should a serious event occur, your
government will be able to make contact and account for you.
Take out appropriate insurance. No one ever expects an injury or
accident to happen. However, we have heard a number of
unfortunate stories from travellers and they usually start with: I
never expected...
Leave a copy of your itinerary with friends or family.

b. Health information
Our adventures travel to some exciting and far off places. With that,
comes exposure to new and unfamiliar bugs, viruses and infections.
Consult you local medical professional well before leaving home. You
may need injections to prevent against common diseases', and they
may need some time to incubate before they are effective. Your
medical professional or travel clinic will advise on what is needed.
The travel experience will expose you to many different types and
forms of transport, and many risks and rewards. Some of these may be
familiar to you and just a matter of commonsense, and some may not.
Take note of the top 5 tips below, received from experienced Sky Travel
travellers:
1. Air travel

Pay attention to the inflight briefing. It may seem

monotonous or boring to those who travel often, but in the
event of an emergency, you will need to know it instantly.
Count the rows to the emergency exit. In an emergency,
lighting may be reduced.
Don't drink too much alcohol. Cabins are pressurized so the
effect of alcohol is greater than normal.
Listen to the flight attendants. They are primarily there for
your safety.
Keep your seatbelt fastened. Turbulence can occur at
anytime.

2. Buses and trains

Keep your personal belongings in your sight, or preferably on

you.
A lock placed on zippers is a good deterrent to a would be
thief.
Watch for uneven, slippery surfaces or other obstacles as you
enter and exit the vehicle.

Remain alert to surroundings. Be aware of distractions, as

they may be opportunities for pickpockets.
Know your stop.

3. Taxis

If you are staying at a hotel, have them call you a taxi, rather
than wave one down on the street.
Use taxies from a taxi stand where possible. Typically only
registered operators may use a taxi stand.
Keep your belongings at your side or feet. If you need to exit
quickly they will be easily accessible.
If in an emergency situation, leave the bags. You can run
faster without it and items can be replaced.
Check the identification of the driver before getting in. It
should be prominently displayed in the vehicle if it is a
legitimate taxi.

4. Water transport

Listen to the safety briefing. You will need to know what to do

in an emergency.
If lifejackets are supplied use them.
Always have at least one hand free to hold onto something to
help with your balance.
The sun reflects up off the water. Ensure you have adequate
sunscreen protection.
Take medication for seasickness prior to boarding it may
take some time to become effective.

5. Accommodation

Accommodation is generally considered a safe haven for

weary travellers. However the reality is it is often the most
likely place that accidents and thefts occur. The following
things can be done to increase your personal safety as told to
us by fellow travellers:
When arriving, stay with your bags until they are transferred
from the taxi or bus to the lobby.
Lobbies can be chaotic places with many people coming and
going. Keep an eye on your bags at all times when checking
in and out. The busy atmosphere is a welcome distraction to
opportunists.
When you enter your hotel room, make sure the door closes
firmly behind you and it locks.
When in your room lock the door, use the security latch, lock
windows, and connecting room doors.
Always use the 'spy hole' to see who is at the door before
opening it.
Know the emergency assistance number, and how to operate
the phone system.
Store all unneeded personal items, cash, valuables and travel
documents in the inroom safe.

Take note of the emergency plan on the back of the hotel

door. You will need to know it in an emergency.
Place your room key in the same place each time. It avoids
losing it, and you will know where it is in an emergency
situation.
Use the nonslip mats in the showers if provided.

c. Out and About

One of the great ways to experience a new destination is to simply
immerse yourself into it! However, as with anywhere, there are select
elements of the local community who prey on the vulnerable. We have
received many tips and advise from our travellers on the best way to
do reduce vulnerability, and protect safety while enjoying the amazing
sights. Some of these ideas may be simple commonsense, while others
you safety while out and about:

Blend in as much as possible, especially in your dress and

appearance. Try to avoid an obvious tourist appearance.
View maps discreetly. A map identifies you as a tourist, and
unfortunately, a target.
If disorientated, only ask for directions from uniformed officers or
persons of obvious authority.
Stay on well lit or well trafficked areas and roads. Danger often lurks
in dark and less populated areas.
Photos are a must when travelling. However, keep the camera
discreet. Many 'point-and-shoot' cameras will fit in your pocket out
of sight when not in use. Do not leave larger ones dangling around
your neck, or other places in plain view.
When withdrawing money from bank machines, try to do so during
daylight, in well trafficked areas and use machines that are
associated with a recognized bank where possible. As with
anywhere, protect your personal PIN number by covering the
keypad from prying eyes with your other hand. Once the cash is
withdrawn, take time to ensure it is stashed away safely. Do not do
so while walking down the street advertising the fact you are
carrying amounts of cash with you.
Leave excess cash, travel documents, jewelry in the hotel safe, or
better yet at home if you don't need it while away.
An experienced pickpocket can usually pick a tourist out in a crowd.
Wear your purse across your body with the opening flap against
your stomach so that it's more difficult to get into. If you're carrying
a daypack wear it in front, kangaroo style.
Where possible avoid walking alone especially at night. Traveling
with friends makes you much less of a target.
Take the hotel card containing the hotel name and address with you.
This way, even if you do not speak the language, a taxi will be able
to take you back to the hotel.

d. Optional Activities

On your Sky Travel tour, you will have many included activities. All of
the included activities are properly vetted and regularly checked by us.
However, there will also be some free time for you to set off on your
own. We ask you to use your discretion when considering optional
activities directly with suppliers. Safety should always be your key
consideration, as it is ours. Ask about their safety practices, history,
insurance and emergency plans. Particular attention should be paid
when water activities are involved, and always insist on travelling with
a guide.
e. High Altitudes
Some of our tours take place at a high altitude. Effects of altitude on
the human body begin to appear at 1500 meters above sea level. It is
possible that travellers at this altitude (and higher) may experience
symptoms of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) also known as altitude
sickness. In more serious cases AMS can progress to High Altitude
Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE).
Both of HAPE and HACE are potentially fatal. It is very important that all
travellers are aware of, and able to recognize, signs and symptoms of
altitude on their body.
Sky Travel recommends that everyone, especially those with preexisting medical conditions, seek the advice of their doctor regarding
travelling in high altitude. Please provide a detailed copy of your travel
itinerary to your physician so they may better assist you.
Possible symptoms of altitude sickness
Common mild symptoms include headache, fatigue, nausea, stomach
illness, dizziness, sleep disturbance and shortness of breath.
More serious symptoms include fever, dry cough, vomiting, bluish color
on lips and fingers, difficulty breathing even when resting, lack of
balance, loss of consciousness.
Some recommendations when travelling in high altitude
Give yourself at least one day to rest and acclimatize. Avoid any
strenuous physical activity
Take altitude medication as instructed by your physician
Use anti Inflammatory to treat mild symptoms
Drink plenty of water. Drink a little, often.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine
Stick to a plain diet chicken soup, bread, and light meals
Do not rely on coca tea or chewing coca leaves. Although a common
Andean remedy, no medical studies have proven this as a means to
prevent altitude sickness.

Golden Rules of travelling in high altitude

1. If you feel unwell in high altitude, it is due to altitude sickness
until proven otherwise
2. If you have symptoms of AMS, do not proceed to higher
altitudes
3. If your symptoms worsen, you need to get to a lower altitude
as soon as possible.

REFERENCE
Office of compliance bulletin (2004), Common Office Hazards, Small Changes
Can Reduce Big Hazards, Volume III, Number 4. retrieved on 2 December 2015
from
http://www.compliance.gov/formspubs/publications/bulletins/bulletin_officehazards_oct04.pdf
California Sanitation risk management (2010), Safety Training Topic OFFICE
SAFETY. retrieved on 2 December 2015 from
http://www.smithprotective.com/TRAIN/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/OfficeSafety-Training.pdf
Refrensse
Travel Safety
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-resources/safety/
Well on Your Way - A Canadians Guide to Healthy Travel Abroad
http://travel.gc.ca/travelling/publications/well-on-your-way##introduction

REFERENCE
Office of compliance bulletin (2004), Common Office Hazards, Small Changes
Can Reduce Big Hazards, Volume III, Number 4. retrieved on 2 December 2015
from
http://www.compliance.gov/formspubs/publications/bulletins/bulletin_officehazards_oct04.pdf
California Sanitation risk management (2010), Safety Training Topic OFFICE
SAFETY. retrieved on 2 December 2015 from
http://www.smithprotective.com/TRAIN/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/OfficeSafety-Training.pdf
Refrensse
Travel Safety
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-resources/safety/
Well on Your Way - A Canadians Guide to Healthy Travel Abroad
http://travel.gc.ca/travelling/publications/well-on-your-way##introduction