Don't Be A Victim! Know the Laws of the Country You're In
Some young Americans go abroad assuming that they are immune from prosecution in foreign countries because they are American citizens.
Wrong.
Anyone, including Americans, who breaks the law could face severe penalties, including prison sentences. Young people are sometimes victimized because they may be unaware of the laws, customs, or standards of the country they are visiting.
Each year, more than 2,500 American citizens are arrested abroad - about half on narcotics charges, including possession of very small amounts of illegal substances.
Alcohol also gets U.S. citizens in big trouble abroad. Students have been arrested for being intoxicated in public areas, for underage drinking, and for drunk driving.
Finally, even getting too wild and crazy can cause you more pain than any hangover if you get caught in many other countries. “Reckless behavior” abroad can land you in a foreign jail or worse!
Worse? What's worse than going to prison?
Young Americans have found themselves in unfamiliar locales and incapable of exercising self preservation behaviors while under the influence of drugs or alcohol; They've suffered drug or alcohol related injuries, deaths from automobile accidents, drownings, rapes and robberies.
So, how can you protect yourself?
1. Become familiar with the basic laws and customs of the country you plan to visit before you travel.
2. Don't lose control. It's ok to have fun, but it's still your 24-7 job to be alert and ready to act -- just in case.
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