Defensive Countermeasures Institute —

Upon settling in at your destination, the degree to which to elevate your security precautions is largely dependant on your length of stay. In other words, the longer you remain in place at your temporary destination, the greater the need to increase your awareness and make sound security choices.

For example, one of the very basic needs while conducting business overseas—excluding accommodations—is transportation. With many destinations, it is feasible to rent a vehicle from a reputable firm to solve your basic transportation needs. However, with some foreign venues this is not an option, as leasing a vehicle provided with a driver is the only option. There are obvious pros and cons to each situation; however, when you are obliged to move about a foreign city with someone else at the wheel, your personal security takes on new parameters. Couple the latter situation with an extended stay and the need for additional measures becomes clear.

In each instance when a driver is provided from the leasing company, the first order of business is to meet with them and establish a firm business-like rapport. This meeting should take place in a public setting—the lobby of your hotel, for example. The initial meeting should lay out your basic requirements, such as punctuality, driver safety. It is also important to offer the driver an understanding of the distances and locations you will be traveling. However, do not lay out each day in detail. This necessary security precaution is needed to limit the degree your travel becomes time and place predictable. Upon arrival at your meeting location, let the driver know what time you will need his or her services again. Note: Many times drivers will remain nearby, as will other contracted drivers, and they will exchange information about their clients. Therefore, be certain not to provide too many personal details to your driver.

Initially, you will most likely situate yourself in the rear seat of the vehicle as you move about your day. However, you eventually want to climb into the seat next to the driver. This not only allows you to keep close watch on the road ahead—as well as the driver’s speed and other habits—you present a less attractive target for street crime since you do not appear to be “chauffeured,” which translates to affluence in many regions of the world. Finally, if your travels will routinely be between one or two locations during the length of your stay, be sure to vary your pick-up and departure times, plan for the use of alternate routes and equally important is to consider the needs of your driver. Ensure you allow for customary needs such as meal breaks, daily prayer and adequate rest periods. Building rapport and mutual respect with your driver is an essential element for taking charge of your personal safety and security when traveling in foreign lands.

Be Safe!