In July 2013, when all non-essential U.S. citizens were advised to depart Egypt after the resignation of former President Muhammed Morsi, any crisis response company worth its salt was already deep into planning for its clients there.
The possibility of an evacuation of personnel and their families from a manmade or natural disaster keeps many security directors up at night. Evacuations are logistical ballets, where all moving parts must be practiced and happen in just the right order to be successful. And the plans must also include contingencies for the unexpected black swan events.
“Forewarned, forearmed; to be prepared is half the victory.” - Miguel de Cervantes When unexpected security situations arise with travelers abroad, there is a marked difference in response between trained individuals and those who are untrained. When facing security or safety challenges, the trained traveler or expatriate responds in accordance with what they have been taught and learned; they have protocols and pre-briefed responses as threats present themselves.