Hurricane Sandy: Stay Safe Tips for Navigating the Storm

If you’re trying to get to or from the east coast this week, most likely your travel plans have been delayed due to Hurricane Sandy. Transportation systems are shut down and many of the nation’s major airlines have already canceled thousands of flights. Even the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq called off trading for today and the Federal Government in Washington is closed.

According to Federal Emergency Management Administrator Craig Fugate, “The time for preparing and talking is about over, as Hurricane Sandy made its way up the Atlantic on a collision course with two other weather systems that could turn it into one of the most fearsome storms on record in the United States. People need to be acting now.”

Not sure how to act fast? If you have an On Call International membership, you can rest assured that you have access to the following emergency services while traveling during the storm:

Rescheduling Travel Plans: You’re at the airport and your flight is cancelled. Now what do you do? Pick up your phone and give us a call. We can help you with rescheduling your flights and finding local hotels with availability. For those who prefer to handle their own arrangements, don’t forget that calling the airline is much faster than visiting the ticket counter at the airport. You can also use social media channels such as Facebook and Twitter to connect with your airline’s support staff or you can try purchasing a day pass to the airport lounge where an agent may be better able to assist you.

Finding Appropriate Healthcare: If you’re traveling more than 50 miles away from home and experience a medical emergency, On Call International can provide you with emergency medical transportation, including medical evacuation, to any hospital of your choice. Our members also have unlimited access to our 24-hour nurse helpline and worldwide medical, dental and pharmacy referrals.

Staying Informed: If the destination you are in is under hurricane watch or warnings, it’s important to stay up-to-date about the community’s emergency plans, including locations of emergency shelters and evacuation routes. The media and social networking channels will also undoubtedly keep you updated on recent developments about the storm, but it is best to trust vetted information sources only. If you’re unable to access timely and credible information, feel free to give us a call.