ASK THE LOCAL PEOPLE
FOR THE SAFE PATH
WHEN TRAVELING IN POTENTIALLY MINED AREAS
Ask the local people for the safe path,
especially if traveling in new areas. Also try to take a guide.
Only the local people will know about which areas are safe paths/areas and which could be mined. These areas can change regularly so you need the advice of someone who has experienced the changes. Some farmers use mines to protect their fields, which are laid in the night and taken up in the morning. Sometimes they forget where they put the mines and have been known to stand on one of their own mines. Don't be shy to ask which is the safe path, and to learn how to ask them in their own language.

 In Cambodia it was common for the people to laugh when I ask "Are there any mines around here?" Although I found this a bit off putting at first, I still continued to ask everyone I met for my safety and peace of mind. After awhile I learnt not to trust just one opinion, as some Khmer answer what they think I want to hear, so they can 'save face'.
 

CAMBODIAN MINE AWARENESS TEACHERS GUIDE
      Part 13

      TRAVELING PROCEDURES IN AN UNKNOWN AREA

      MAIN POINTS
      - Ask the local people for the safe path. 
      - Pay special attention to your children. 


       
       

      XVI