Safety
Otavalo is an extremely safe, crime-free city. While volunteers should take precautions to avoid petty theft, there is relatively low risk there. In addition, the hostel where volunteers stay is quite secure, featuring a gate and bolted doors, doctors that make house-calls, and the added benefit of living under the same roof as the foundation’s directors, who will take action in case of an emergency.
There may be greater risks in Quito and during volunteers’ weekend trips. While staying in Quito, volunteers are housed in a safe, tourist-friendly neighborhood. Volunteers should take the same precautions needed in any major city–they should be sure to stay together, and should not walk around alone at night.
All volunteers will be provided with detailed Emergency Action Plans, which they will be expected to sign and with which they must comply. These plans will include details on what to do if you are separated from a group, how to address crime, how to deal with health issues, and who to contact in case of an emergency.
For some activities, volunteers will be given comprehensive lists of the specific risks association with certain weekend trips and activities, and will be asked to comply with rules (e.g. staying within eye-sight of a guide during a hike) to ensure their safety.
