Preventing Accidents Overseas
Don't get burned. In Spain and France C
is for hot!
by James Plouf
Americans experience far more illnesses than accidents when traveling overseas, but nearly 50% of deaths are caused by accidents while less than 1% are caused by travel related diseases. Many accidents occur because travelers assume that conditions are the same as back home. This is not always the case. Prevention may require rethinking deeply ingrained habits and assumptions.
Traffic--Crossing the street, a skill we have been taught since childhood, is so automatic that we hardly stop to think and look the other way in countries were traffic moves on the left. Britain, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Thailand and numerous other countries drive on what Americans and Europeans typically refer to as the wrong side of the road. Instinctively one tends to look the wrong way when checking for oncoming vehicles. The problem is so serious in Britain that warning signs have been painted on the pavement instructing pedestrians which way to look. To be extra safe, look both ways.
Sightseeing--Be aware of local hazards. Watch your step while climbing on ancient ruins. Sites in Greece and Italy for instance, are scattered with rocks. Sidewalks may have deep potholes or protruding tree roots. Countries where bicycle transport is popular present a new hazard for Americans. China has millions of bicycles. Never try to dodge an approaching bicycle, simply freeze and let it go by.In developing countries it is sometimes best to leave the driving to others. Road signs are often confusing, pavement may be non existent and cars often share the road with people, animals, bicycles, farm vehicles and street vendors.
C is for HOT!
C is for Hot--It may seem like some kind of cruel plumbing mistake, but getting scalded by hot water is no joke. English speaking travelers to France and Spain are often victims of confusing bathtub and shower fixtures. In Spanish speaking countries the "C" on faucets means caliente or hot — not cold. Similarly, in French speaking countries the "C" means chaud or hot. It’s an easy mistake and travelers are burned every year by this common trap. Burns also occur frequently in hotels with poor plumbing. A lukewarm shower can suddenly turns scalding and cause serious injury. Generally, baths are safer.
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