22 February 2011

Sydney

International SOS, a leading global provider of medical assistance, healthcare and security services, is providing ongoing emergency assistance to its clients who have employees based in Christchurch, or who may be travelling there.

In the immediate wake of the earthquake, International SOS activated a crisis management team in its Sydney alarm center to begin coordination operations. The global team, made up of medical, security, aviation and logistics experts, has secured assets and providers and is preparing options for assisting clients on the ground, including transfer to other cities if required.

We have also arranged an incident management team to be deployed in Christchurch to coordinate our response on the ground.

We have activated a medical representative in Christchurch, and a logistical expert is travelling from Auckland to the area to further assist with coordination and travel arrangements. 

International SOS encourages its clients to call one of its 28 alarm centers for help if evacuating travelers and expatriates from Christchurch. Additional information is provided to clients via the members section of the International SOS website (www.internationalsos.com).

Travel Advice
International SOS and Control Risks are closely monitoring the developing situation in Christchurch.  Our current advice includes:

• Organisations with personnel affected should activate their crisis management plans
• Avoid travel to the earthquake-affected areas at this time.
• Expect disruption to travel and essential services in earthquake-affected areas.
• Personnel flying to and from Christchurch airport should reconfirm their bookings with the relevant airline.
• All organisations should account for staff.
• Adhere to emergency services instructions.
• Be aware of falling masonry; do not re-enter buildings until they have been given the all clear.
• Be aware that aftershocks could pose a risk to life and property.
• Drink only boiled or bottled water, or canned or carbonated beverages as the local water supply may be contaminated; avoid contact with contaminated water or sewer spills.
• Practice good hygiene. Wash your hands with soap and safe water, or use a hand santiser. This is especially important before preparing food or eating.
• Clean skin cuts and abrasions thoroughly. Treat skin infections early.
• Monitor local media and our website for further updates on the situation.

About International SOS

International SOS (http://www.internationalsos.com) is the world's leading international healthcare, medical and security assistance, and concierge services company. Operating in over 70 countries, International SOS provides integrated medical, clinical, security, and customer care solutions to organizations with international operations. A global team of over 8,000 employees led by 970 full-time physicians and 200 security specialists provides services including planning, preventative programs, in-country expertise and emergency response to 66 percent of the Fortune Global 500 companies.