The World Race is all about leaving the typical American lifestyle behind. We live on the edge and do what most people don't. As you travel around the world, there are numerous opportunities for exciting and risky adventures. The unknown begins as soon as you step foot on that airplane – so get ready! While our staff takes every precaution to make sure you are safe and well informed to make wise decisions, the world isn't always a safe place. That's why we've put together this list of safety precautions for our Racers. Pay attention.
1. Get your shots.
Japanese Encephalitis isn't ideal on the mission field, so take the precautions that your doctor recommends and get your shots squared away before you leave!
2. Watch your belongings at all times.
Travel days can get crazy. Just a tip, if there are a lot of locals on a bus with you… don't toss your Macbook pro up top and expect it to be there when you wake up from your nap. Watch your belongings at the bus stop and be sure to lock up your valuables while staying in hostels and other living spaces.
3. Stay hydrated.
Water water water! Dehydration can sneak up on you. Drink water even when you don't feel like it. It is easy to grab a cup of coffee when it's offered or pick up a Dr. Pepper you have been longing for since launch, which is okay, but be sure to drink that Nalgene. Maybe get a competition with your team of who can drink the most water! You don't want to post a blog telling your family you are in the "hospital" in the bush of Africa when it could have been prevented by water.
4. Be careful with street food.
As you walk down the busy streets of Guatemala or the city streets of Mozambique, there will always be an opportunity to purchase food. Homemade right there in front of you. Your taste buds are going nuts as you see the mouth watering chicken dishes or the fresh bread, but be careful. Some are okay but some are unsanitary and will result in stomach problems for months. Be aware of the surroundings and how clean it seems and whether it is a hot spot for others. Trust your instincts.
5. Be serious while dealing with Airport Security.
Going through customs in a new country, don't joke when they question your job description saying that you were once a terrorist or are currently a missionary. Stay calm and write that you're a tourist. Smile, answer questions, and safely enter the country to spread the love of Jesus.
6. Take extra precautions on streets.
Roads around the world are nothing like those in the States. Walk on the inside of the sidewalk if there is one. Make the extra ten steps to go to the crosswalk. Sometimes you may have to wait 10 minutes on an Indian street to cross safely. Be patient.
7. Don't go anywhere alone.
Sometimes everything in you just wants to go down to the local coffee shop and pretend to be normal and independent just for an hour. Grab a teammate. Sit at a different table if you need to feel alone. Don't take off on a run thinking it's "what you always do in America." Grab a buddy. It's safe.
8. Be aware of drivers you are trusting.
Use your instincts when picking a cap driver. Talk to him and see if he seems alert and sober. Some come across plain shady… find another one.
9. Leave your passport and extra cash behind.
You will only need your passport for one day a month when you're moving countries. Other than that, leave it where you leave your other belongings. Put it in a hidden place. At the foot of your sleeping bag. In the bottom of your backpack. There is no reason to have it at any other time. You don't want to accidentally lose it or someone grab it… and you are stuck in that country for longer than you may have planned. Same with your extra cash. There is no reason to carry around 100 USD just to feel prepared. Carry as little as possible.
10. Bring basic medicines.
There will be times where all you want is for your headache to go away. In the mountains of Nepal it could be impossible to get such a wish. Bring a bottle of your choice pain killer. Maybe a bottle of cipro for possible unknown sicknesses that come up. There are pharmacies and clinics all over the world that can provide these basic meds, but in the condition that you're far from such a place, be prepared.
11. Have fun!
If you don't have fun you'll be lame which will result in a lack of safety. It's safe to be laughing and being joyful as you travel the world and bring the love of Christ to those who have never heard of such a name!
The World Race is about risk. It was created to provide an opportunity for a generation to live on the edge and escape their normal to bring Kingdom to earth. But earth doesn't have the fullness of Christ's kingdom yet. So be prepared. Be cautious. Be overprotective of your belongings and your teammates. But while you're at it, don't get scared. Get your party pants on! This will be one of the most exciting years of your life.
