Heri Sisworo
In light of Bromo sudden eruption and flash flood on Friday afternoon at 4:37 p.m., we are reminded that natural disaster can strike without warnings. For travelers, anticipating a disaster is really important, especially when visiting high-risk destinations. Spots like volcanoes, beaches, or waterfalls are might pose dangers for the unassuming tourists. Some safety tips are needed for those who are unaware of such danger.
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Indonesia, a part of Belt of Fire, is naturally a disaster-prone area. Volcano eruption, floods, earthquakes happen quite regularly in this country. That might be a problem for tourists as many of Indonesia’s best destinations are also a high-risk location for disaster. Mount Bromo is one of them. Here are some of the safety tips to prepare for natural disasters for travelers in Indonesia.
Before you go
Make sure that you have prepared everything, including your documents. Entering Indonesia is really easy because most western countries passport holders don’t need a tourist visa to enter this country. Make sure you register with your embassy upon entering Indonesia. It’s free and it gives a layer of protection in the form of quick information if an emergency happens. They will contact you as soon as there is an emergency. You can also share your itinerary or general travel plan wth friends or family.
Know your destinations
Preparation is key to your safe travel. You need to learn about your destinations. Each country has a dynamic Travel Advisory Alerts and other important details that might affect your travel. Furthermore, learning about your specific destination is also important. For instance, if you want to visit Bromo, make sure you know the activity status. If you want to visit a waterfall, make sure that there is no flood upstream. Stay informed.
Prepare for delays
There are several notorious volcanoes that often erupt and disturb the aviation industry. The eruption of Mount Agung in Bali, Mount Sinabung in Sumatra, Mount Anak Krakatau in Sunda Strait, Mount Soputan in Sulawesi, Mount Bromo in Java, and many more volcanoes often causes delays to flights. Make sure you have a contingency plan if this happens. You can also check Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation (VONA) website for the most current situation.
Get travel insurance
As with all kinds of insurance, you never think that you need it until you do. Travel insurance can cover yourself and also your valuables during your travel. Preparing yourself before travel is important and you can’t be too careful. However, sometimes, bad things just happen. If God forbid, things beyond your control happen (accident, disaster, crime), at least you are protected. The insurer usually also have specific safety tips for you.
If disaster does happen
In case you are caught in a disaster, the first thing to do is to follow instructions from local authorities about security and evacuation. Prepare an exit strategy just in case you are caught in an emergency alone. Think of the ways to get towards safety. Contact your nearest embassy or consulate if you need emergency help. Note that this will not alert emergency responders directly.
Indonesia is, for the most part, is a pretty safe place to visit. However, there are destinations where disasters might happen. Even if you come for the fun, which you will definitely get, you also need a plan should things go awry due to natural disasters. Next
