If disaster strikes, make sure you are safe first of all. If you're not, move to safety, and identify what your location is so that you can communicate it to others. Depending on the situation, contact emergency services. Then find out information about your situation from representatives of those involved (e.g., your airline - Is your flight canceled or just delayed? Can the airline put you on a later flight, or are you stuck?; your medical provider - Does the situation require hospitalization?; etc.)

Contact all the key people who can support you and who need to know your whereabouts and status (e.g., your university's emergency line, on-site or on-call support staff, your host family or anyone expecting you, your family or other support folks back home, and the embassy as appropriate. As soon as you can, contact your insurance company. Insurance company representatives will talk you through your options and what to do next. They will tell you if they can solve any issues on your behalf, whether they can get funds to you if necessary, or any conditions for spending that can be reimbursed later.

Remember to KEEP ALL RECEIPTS of any costs you incur related to situations and items covered by your insurance. Many insurance companies require you to pay the costs up front and to seek reimbursement later, but you must have receipts to claim reimbursement.  If you have refundable portions of your trip (e.g., tickets, accommodations, etc.), your insurance will not cover these unless the vendor refuses a full refund. Normally, you will first have to contact your travel salesperson, hotel, or airline, to confirm your cancellation policy and receive any refund due. If you are not due to receive a full refund, your insurance provider will pay you the rest once you can show confirmation of what is and is not refunded.

If you're entitled to any reimbursement or compensation, coordinate with your institution and insurance company about any claims.