There are many expatriates currently trapped in Bahrain because they are in debt to banks or private firms, as the country will not allow them to leave until their debts are paid. Debtors may not leave the country under the law, so foreign workers are trapped there despite many countries urging them to go home to avoid the violence. The situation highlights the need for expatriates to familiarize themselves with local laws when they move abroad so that they do not unknowingly violate them. HSBC is planning to apply to the courts to have the ban on debtors leaving the country lifted for its customers, and if they are successful other banks may follow, but it is still uncertain at this point and many expatriates remain trapped. As such, all expatriates should consider whether they would be able to leave quickly if the circumstances in their new country changed and it was unsafe to be there. And if one finds oneself unable to evacuate, one should have a plan for staying as safe as possible. Avoiding large groups of people, demonstrations, and public transportation is recommended in times of unrest, and the home should be secured with locks and bars on doors and windows.