Wednesday, March 23, 2016

Vigilance recommended for all travel within Europe

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      The State Department alerts U.S. citizens to potential risks
of travel to and throughout Europe following several terrorist
attacks, including the March 22 attacks in Brussels claimed by
ISIL.  Terrorist groups continue to plan near-term attacks
throughout Europe, targeting sporting events, tourist sites,
restaurants, and transportation.  This Travel Alert expires on
June 20, 2016.
      U.S. citizens should exercise vigilance when in public
places or using mass transportation.  Be aware of immediate
surroundings and avoid crowded places.  Exercise particular
caution during religious holidays and at large festivals and
events.
      U. S. citizens should also:
      - Follow the instructions of local authorities, especially in an
emergency.
      - Monitor media and local information sources and factor updated
information into personal travel plans and activities.
      - Be prepared for additional security screening and unexpected
disruptions.
      - Stay in touch with your family members and ensure they know
how to reach you in the event of an emergency.
      - Register in our Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP.
      https://travel.state.gov/
      European governments continue to guard against terrorist
attacks and conduct raids to disrupt plots.  We work closely
with our allies and will continue to share information with our
European partners that will help identify and counter terrorist
threats.
      For further information:
      - Please see this website: https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/europe-travel-alert.html
      - See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide
Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Country Specific
Information: https://travel.state.gov/
      - Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to
receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an
emergency: https://step.state.gov/step/
      - Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada
or 1-202-501-444 4 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00
p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S.
federal holidays).
      - Follow us on Twitter @TravelGov and Facebook:
      https://www.facebook.com/travelgov/

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