STEP toward preparedness

Returning from a Botswana trip in October ’11, I stayed with a friend in Johannesburg, South Africa. While in her car, I was the victim of a “smash and grab” in which my passport, two credit cards, iPhone and cash were gone in five seconds. Luckily, I was able to obtain a new passport the next day in time to make my flight home.

Even though my phone was off and locked with a passcode, my phone was hacked within 24 hours, and roaming charges of $667 were incurred. My mobile carrier is AT&T, and, since I reported the theft immediately upon my return, AT&T reversed the charges.

I previously had not set up an online account with AT&T. If I had done so, I would have been able to report my stolen phone immediately. This would have greatly lessened the trauma of worrying about the reversal of any charges during my trip home.

I was lucky to have a friend in South Africa to front me money for my passport, etc. A good way to not have to rely on luck is to sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, or STEP, a free service provided by the US government.

STEP allows you to submit information about your upcoming trip abroad so that the US Department of State can better assist you in an emergency. Also, Americans residing abroad can get routine information from the nearest US embassy or consulate.

When you join STEP, you’ll create a user name and password. (Don’t forget to have them with you on your trip.)

If I had not been able to have my friend front me the money for my passport, etc., I would have needed this service.

JOYCE RENEE LEWIS
Camano Island, WA