A Travelers' Guide to Peace of Mind When Crises Arise
It’s hurricane season in Florida, wildfires continue to spark out West, and winter storms are already making their mark up North. For travel therapists, these reminders highlight just how important it is to be ready for the unexpected while on assignment. Emergencies—whether a natural disaster, pandemic, or a community crisis—can feel more daunting when you’re far from home and in unfamiliar surroundings. But with some foresight and intentional planning, you can step into every assignment with confidence, knowing you’re prepared to protect both yourself and the patients who depend on your care. Here’s your guide to staying ready for anything, no matter where your journey takes you.
beyond the job: learn the town, the forecast, and the lifestyle
Every new assignment is an opportunity to explore a different corner of the country, but it also comes with its own set of risks. California might mean wildfire awareness, Florida brings the possibility of hurricanes, and northern states may require preparation for snowstorms or icy conditions. Take the time to understand the new area you’re in. Learn about seasonal weather patterns and local hazards, bookmark reliable news outlets, and set up alerts on a trusted weather app so you’re always a step ahead. Make note of where the nearest hospital, urgent care, pharmacy, and police station are located, and confirm whether the community has any variations in emergency numbers or services. Staying tuned in means you’ll never be caught off guard if conditions change quickly.
Here are a few resources we recommend bookmarking:
- Severe Weather Alerts: National Weather Service gives real-time forecasts and warnings for your location.
- Wildfire Updates: InciWeb is the official incident information on active wildfires nationwide.
- Hurricane Tracking: The National Hurricane Center provides up-to-date storm paths, advisories, and safety tips.
- Winter Storm Preparedness: Ready.gov Winter Weather has guidance on how to prepare for snow, ice, and extreme cold.
- Weather App Alerts: The Weather Channel App or AccuWeather are trusted mobile apps for personalized alerts wherever you’re living.
- Local News Outlets: Localnow provides free local news, weather, traffic and more based on your assignment’s city or zip code.
Make a "go bag"
While you can’t always know the emergencies that may arise in your new location, one of the most important steps is having a “go bag” with essentials kept in one spot. Identification, important documents stored in a waterproof pouch, cash, cards, medications, a flashlight, a portable charger, water, snacks, and a basic first aid kit can make all the difference if you need to leave in a hurry.
reach out to your emergency contact
Just as important is making a go bag: choose a primary contact – maybe back home - who always knows where you’re living and working and set up a simple check-in plan. Even something as small as a link to the local weather and news can help everyone stay on the same page. Keep your phone charged and stay in close contact if anything goes awry.
know the protocols at your facility
Every healthcare setting operates differently when it comes to emergencies, and as a traveler you may not be there long enough for those procedures to feel second nature. That’s why it’s important to ask about protocols early. During orientation, take note of the seasonal or event concerns and the steps your facility expects in different crisis situations, and keep a quick-reference list of your chain of command. Whenever possible, participate fully in drills or trainings. In a moment where teamwork is everything, knowing the playbook means you can be a stronger, steadier presence for both patients and colleagues.
stay connected: your recruiter is part of your safety net
During an emergency, your recruiter is a vital part of your support system. Whether you’re dealing with a hurricane, wildfire, pandemic, or community crisis, keeping them updated ensures you have support during any situation. Your recruiter can confirm your facility’s protocols, help troubleshoot housing or travel disruptions, and share important updates or resources from your agency. If something ever feels overwhelming or unclear, they’re there to help guide you through it. A quick call or message can give you the backup you need to focus on staying safe.
build your local support system
Traveling for work doesn’t mean you have to go it alone. Creating connections wherever you land is just as important for safety as it is for your own sense of belonging. A quick introduction to your colleagues or your neighbors can open doors to local insights you won’t find online. Many communities also have emergency preparedness groups or social media pages that post updates in times of crisis, and joining them helps you stay plugged in. In uncertain moments, having people to rely on makes all the difference.
As a healthcare traveler, your ability to adapt is one of your greatest strengths. Emergencies may never come, but when they do, being prepared allows you to step forward with calm, confidence, and resilience. More than just protecting yourself, your readiness helps ensure that patients, colleagues, and communities continue to receive the care they desperately need—even in the hardest of moments.
