There is a pharmacy near the Riva post office that can assist you with over-the-counter medical needs. The pharmacist there speaks English and can advise you about types of ailments and treatments, and whether antibiotics may be needed.

If a student requires medical attention of a doctor, A staff member will drive him/her to see a preferably English speaking physician (Usually Dr. Schwartzenbach in Melide whi can refer one to a specialist if necessary).

An office staff member can make an appointment with a dentist or a gynecologist in Lugano. If a physician is not available, emergency services of the next hospital will be used. The closest hospital is located in Mendrisio. The hospital in Lugano provides emergency dental services. As in the U.S., the use of an emergency facility is much more expensive than an regular appointment with a doctor.

The approximate cost of a visit is 60CHF, which will automatically be billed to CESA. The student is then responsible for reimbursing that amount. Please note that typically U.S. health insurance contracts do not cover European territory directly. However, many companies will reimburse either fully or in part the cost of medical care abroad upon submission of receipts. All students are obligated to obtain information about reimbursement shares and procedures prior to departure.

It is important to start by pointing out that life is perfectly normal and calm here. There is no reckoning with the logic of terrorism, of course, but there is no apparent reason for undue agitation.

We have nonetheless taken thorough precautions. We have been in touch with Police Headquarters of the Canton Ticino, who work with the Swiss Federal services responsible for public order.

The Commander of the police force of Chiasso and two of his officers visited our facilities. They asked for exact information on the nature of our programs, the composition of our groups, and made a note of all the names of our personnel and the program participants. They carefully surveyed the site of Villa Maderni and of the Pabiana and made copious notes and copies of floor plans, noting exits and other features of interest to security. We agreed that under the circumstances it was fortunate that the house was not widely known as an American facility, nor marked as such by signs and flags, and that we would continue to maintain a low profile.

The police undertook to patrol with increased frequency and vigilance. We established a direct line to Police headquarters in the Cantonal Capital in Bellinzona, providing for a code that will allow the police to retrieve instantly all the information regarding our facilities should the need arise. We established another line to the regional police station, headed by the sergeant most familiar with local conditions. The police conversely made due note of both my and our operation manager Daniela Doninelli's day and night phones and addresses.

Although living abroad has many of the same dangers as living in the United States, the excitement of a new environment may make some people a little careless or distracted. Here are a few common-sense precautions that people can follow to increase the chances of an incident-free experience:

* Avoid to give out the address of CESA. Try not to disclose that you live in RIVA (CESA is the only institution there) Feel free to give the phone numbers or your email address if you want to keep in touch with your new friends.

* Be aware of your surroundings.

* Never leave your luggage or backpack unattended.

* Talk to people who have been to the places you intend to travel to. Their insights may be useful. But be aware though that these are merely their personal opinions.

* Limit your valuables. You should not bring expensive jewelry, for example. Your wallet should be in an obscure, closed pocket or in a waist money-belt. Purses should have zippered closures and should be carried over the shoulder and held close under the arm.

* Make two sets of copies of all your important documents (passport, credit cards and health insurance information). Take one set with you and keep it separate from the actual documents. Leave the other set at home.

* Avoid illegal drugs. In addition to VA TECH's HONOR CODE, you are subject to the laws of the country in which you are staying.

* Travel with a companion at night and stay in populated, well-trafficked area.

* If you are robbed, call the police immediately and fill out a police report. This may be important in making an insurance claim.