If you're a British National you should consider registering with LOCATE before you travel

In light of the catastrophic events that have been unfolding since Friday in Japan, it is perhaps useful to consider how prepared you are if you encounter a crisis whilst travelling. One important thing you can do before you travel is register your travel plans with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO).

The FCO encourage all British Nationals travelling or living overseas to register with their service, LOCATE, so that they can help you if you find yourself in the middle of a major catastrophe and they can also assist your loved ones in contacting you.

You might not want to think about the prospect of finding yourself in the middle of a disaster when planning your next trip, but you should always be proactive and where possible, have contingencies in place if something goes wrong whilst you are away.

Visit the FCO website to find out more and register with LOCATE

You can also follow the FCO on Facebook and Twitter: @britishabroad