Help & Guidance in Crisis Situations
General advice and trusted resources for people affected by war, civil unrest, natural disasters, or other emergencies abroad — and how Message in a Bottle can connect you with others able and willing to offer guidance, information, or practical assistance.
Immediate Safety Measures
Your safety is the highest priority.
- Move to a secure, stable location away from immediate danger.
- Avoid conflict zones, damaged infrastructure, and isolated areas.
- Keep your documents on you — identification, passport, and essential belongings at all times.
- Travel light. Carry only essential documents, money, medication, and a few necessities so you can move quickly and safely. The less you carry, the easier it is to reach safety in a fast-changing situation.
- Protect your communication. Preserve access to your devices and conserve battery power.
- Keep a low profile. Stay calm and cooperative, adapt to your surroundings, and follow local cues to avoid drawing attention.
Communication and Information
Maintaining reliable communication is essential.
- Contact your embassy or consulate as soon as possible.
- Tell people where you are. Inform family members or trusted contacts of your current situation and location.
- Follow verified sources only for updates on the situation.
- Distrust rumors. Avoid relying on unverified information circulating on social media.
Movement and Evacuation
Careful planning is critical when attempting to relocate.
- Do not travel through unsafe or unverified routes.
- Follow official evacuation instructions issued by authorities.
- Coordinate through recognized organizations or government agencies whenever possible.
Accepting Assistance Safely
Support from others can be valuable — but caution is necessary.
- Verify who you are dealing with. Check the identity and credibility of individuals offering assistance.
- Guard your information. Avoid sharing sensitive personal or financial details.
- Meet in public, secure locations whenever possible.
- Trust your judgment. Decline any offer that raises concerns.
International Organizations Providing Support
These organizations are recognized globally for their role in crisis response and humanitarian assistance. They work together to coordinate large-scale humanitarian responses, ensuring aid reaches affected populations efficiently.
Emergency assistance, protection, and family tracing services.
Medical care in conflict zones and disaster areas.
Support for migrants, evacuation assistance, and logistics.
Protection and support for displaced persons.
Health guidance and emergency updates.
Coordination of international humanitarian response.
A network of social service agencies, airports, and train stations helping stranded travelers connect with a support system or place.
Rapid response in disasters and crises, operating in 67 countries across six continents.
Privately Owned Companies (Paid Services)
These are commercial firms offering dedicated, tailored paid services. MiaB is not affiliated with them and receives nothing from listing them.
A travel risk, crisis management, and response firm that takes complete control over all stages of its services.
A health and security services firm that can coordinate your safe evacuation and provide expert assistance at every step.
Embassy and Government Assistance
Embassies and consulates are often the most reliable sources of assistance during emergencies.
- Locate and contact your nearest embassy or consulate.
- Follow official instructions regarding evacuation or shelter.
- Register your presence in advance. If your government offers embassy or consulate registration services, use them — especially for extended stays.
The Role of MiaB
MiaB facilitates connections between individuals seeking help and those willing to provide support. Through the platform you may find:
- Local information and situational updates.
- Language assistance and communication support.
- Guidance on transportation options.
- Temporary, voluntary assistance from individuals on the ground.
MiaB does not replace official emergency services or government-led evacuation efforts.
Common Questions
What should I do first if I am caught in war or unrest abroad?
Get to a secure, stable location away from immediate danger, keep your passport and essential documents with you, and contact your embassy or consulate as soon as possible. Tell family or trusted contacts where you are.
Who can help me evacuate from a crisis zone?
Follow official evacuation instructions from local authorities and your embassy first. International organizations such as the ICRC, IOM, and UNHCR assist affected populations, and private firms like Global Rescue or International SOS offer paid evacuation services.
Is it safe to accept help from strangers during a crisis?
Be cautious. Verify the identity and credibility of anyone offering assistance, never share sensitive personal or financial information, meet in public secure locations, and decline any offer that raises concerns.
How can Message in a Bottle help me in an emergency?
MiaB connects you with people nearby who may offer local information, language assistance, transportation guidance, or voluntary practical help. It does not replace official emergency services or government-led evacuations.
A Shared Responsibility
In times of crisis, responsible action, verified information, and mutual respect are essential. MiaB exists to support human connection in difficult moments, while encouraging safety, awareness, and informed decision-making.