Traveling to El Salvador carries inherent risks, typical of many developing countries. However, these risks can be managed effectively with careful planning, adherence to policies, and support from Shelter staff on the ground. To navigate this new environment successfully, team members must adhere to the Shelter Code of Conduct and defer to the wisdom and guidance of local staff. This includes staying together as a group, respecting cultural differences, and following the instructions of Shelter staff regarding safety protocols and conduct in various situations.

While El Salvador has historically been considered a high-risk destination, crime rates have significantly decreased in recent years, now being lower than in many US cities. Rest assured, ensuring the safety of team members is a top priority for team leaders, Shelter staff, and the communities we serve.

El Salvador has a warmer climate compared to many regions in North America. To prepare adequately, team members should hydrate well before the trip and maintain hydration throughout their stay. Additionally, wearing appropriate clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, and seeking shade when necessary are essential measures to prevent heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke.

Shelter staff are trained in first aid and equipped to handle minor injuries. In case of more severe injuries, staff will accompany the affected team member to receive proper medical care from qualified professionals. Team leaders and staff will manage all logistics and communication in the event of an emergency.

All teams traveling with Shelter are provided with basic travel insurance, covering members under the age of 81. Team members should evaluate their own risk (propensity for being injured, baseline health, private insurance, etc) and decide if the group coverage is adequate for their personal circumstances. Some team members may opt to supplement with their own personal travel insurance.

Team members who fall ill during the trip have the option to rest at the hotel for recovery. Most illnesses encountered are minor, such as colds or stomach upsets. In serious cases, team leaders and staff will coordinate medical assistance and support as needed.

Shelter staff will provide the same level of support and care to team leaders as they would to team members. If the team leader is incapacitated, Shelter staff will work together to provide an alternate leader for the remainder of the trip, and will coordinate all logistics and communication with the help of senior Shelter leadership.

Ensuring the safety and well-being of team members, leaders, and Shelter staff is of utmost importance. It is imperative that team members exercise caution and attentiveness while on job sites to minimize the risk of injury. Wearing appropriate clothing, including sturdy shoes and gloves, as well as utilizing sun protection, is strongly advised. It is recommended that team members wear long pants during tasks to mitigate the potential for cuts or scrapes from laminate sheeting. Additionally, to reduce the risk of food or waterborne illnesses, team members are encouraged to consume only Shelter-provided food and water, or safely prepared and packaged snacks.

Team members should inquire with Shelter staff regarding the location of bathroom facilities. It's advisable to carry essential items such as toilet paper, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer while in the communities.

Participants of Shelter trips should be healthy enough to comfortably and safely engage in the experience of traveling to a foreign country and participate in a variety of activities. Team members who require the ongoing care or intervention of medical personnel while at home, should consult their doctor prior to signing on to a team.

While not mandatory, having team members with first aid training is recommended for added peace of mind.

Team leaders bear a significant responsibility for the overall well-being of their teams. To effectively fulfill this role, Shelter recommends utilizing several tools:

• Appropriate Preparation: Prior to travel, teams should be equipped with thorough communication regarding expectations, behavior guidelines, and risk mitigation strategies. Shelter provides a comprehensive Code of Conduct and a list of recommended resources for team leaders to utilize. It is the responsibility of team leaders to select and implement these resources with their team members.

• Open Dialogue and Communication: Team leaders should foster a climate of open communication by demonstrating vulnerability themselves and creating space for team members to express their thoughts and experiences throughout the journey.

• Daily Debriefing: Each day, teams should engage in a nightly debrief session where members have the opportunity to share their experiences and observations. Shelter offers team leaders tips and tools for successful debriefs, refined through years of experience. Team members are encouraged to maintain daily journals to document their experiences and aid in processing.

• Ongoing Care and Follow-Up: Team leaders should continue to support the spiritual, emotional, and psychological well-being of team members post-trip. Shelter recommends conducting at least one group debrief three weeks after the trip to facilitate continued processing and support. Leaders should also provide individual check-ins as needed, whether via text, in-person meetings, or other suitable means.

• Prayer: Team leaders are encouraged to uphold their team members in prayer from the outset of their journey and to continue doing so as long as necessary.

By employing these strategies, team leaders can effectively care for their teams and ensure a positive and enriching experience for all involved.

Creating a safe and supportive environment for team members to process and share their experience is paramount. While the standard practice of nightly debriefs and ongoing support is crucial, there may be instances where additional immediate support is necessary. In such cases, team leaders must be prepared to provide this support.  Remaining calm and composed, along with taking slow, deep breaths, can assist in helping to regulate the nervous system of the team member. Sitting next to or facing the individual in need of support demonstrates attentiveness and fosters a sense of connection. Depending on the situation and the individual's preferences, appropriate physical gestures such as a hug or a comforting touch on the arm may be soothing.

It's essential for leaders to approach each situation with prayerful consideration, discerning the best way to offer support in the moment. Additionally, leaders are encouraged to reach out to other leaders for assistance and guidance whenever needed. By being present, compassionate, and responsive, leaders can effectively address the immediate needs of their team members during challenging moments.

Debriefing with your team during and after your Shelter trip are crucial to the emotional and mental well-being of your team members. Please refer to this brief guide to prepare yourself to be successful when it comes to debriefing. To complement this, your team members will each receive some debriefing information by email approximately one week after their trip.