Emergencies abroad can escalate quickly — medical crises, natural disasters, civil unrest, or sudden illness. This guide gives international travelers a practical, step-by-step emergency preparedness framework, including how Globalwide Association members can access support anywhere in the world.
Globalwide Emergency Contacts
Why Preparation Matters More Than You Think
Most international travelers never experience a serious emergency. But the ones who do are far better off if they prepared in advance. The difference between a manageable crisis and a catastrophic one often comes down to three things: knowing who to call, having the right documentation, and having a plan before you need one.
Globalwide Association members have a significant advantage: 24/7 access to our international medical assistance team, emergency relief protocols for disaster-affected members, and HealthShare coverage for qualifying medical events abroad. But those resources work best when you have done your part in advance.
Your Emergency Preparedness Framework
Before You Travel
Register with your country's embassy via STEP (USA) or equivalent program — it is free and takes 5 minutes.
Save emergency contacts in your phone: local emergency services, your country's embassy, Globalwide support (+1 719-203-2414), and a trusted contact at home.
Download your Globalwide digital membership card and save it offline.
Research your destination: know the local emergency number (not always 911), nearest hospital, and any active travel advisories.
Pack a travel health kit: prescription medications (with labels), first aid supplies, oral rehydration salts, and any destination-specific medications.
Make copies of all critical documents (passport, insurance/membership card, prescriptions) and store them separately from the originals.
During a Medical Emergency
Call local emergency services first if the situation is life-threatening.
Call Globalwide's 24/7 international assistance line: +1 719-203-2414 or WhatsApp +1 719-203-7797. Our team can help locate English-speaking providers, coordinate care, and facilitate HealthShare cost-sharing.
If possible, go to a JCI-accredited hospital — these meet international quality standards and are more likely to have English-speaking staff.
Keep all medical records, receipts, and documentation for HealthShare cost-sharing requests.
Notify your embassy if you are hospitalized for an extended period.
During a Natural Disaster or Civil Unrest
Follow instructions from local authorities and your embassy immediately.
Contact Globalwide if you are a member in an affected area — we activate emergency relief protocols within 48 hours of qualifying events.
Move to a pre-identified safe location (hotel, embassy, or designated shelter) if evacuation is advised.
Conserve phone battery and use text messages rather than calls when networks are congested.
Check in with your emergency contact at home as soon as it is safe to do so.
After the Emergency
Seek follow-up medical care even if you feel recovered — some conditions worsen after initial treatment.
Submit your HealthShare cost-sharing request promptly with all documentation.
Report any lost or stolen documents to local police and your embassy.
Debrief with a mental health professional if the experience was traumatic — emergency events abroad can have lasting psychological effects.
"When the earthquake hit while I was in Ecuador, I had no idea what to do. I called the Globalwide line and they walked me through everything — where to go, who to contact, how to get my medication. I was not alone."
— Thomas W., Globalwide Member, traveling from Canada
Not yet a member? Join from $25/yr to access 24/7 international medical assistance and emergency relief support in 100+ countries.