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How to Find U.S. State Department Travel Warnings
The US State Department regularly issues a publication entitled, “Safe Trip Abroad”, to prepare travelers for international travel. The document prepares travelers by covering topics such as what to do before you go, what to leave behind, what to learn before you go, precautions to take while traveling, and information on assistance abroad.
An important part of planning a trip abroad is finding out if the US State Department has issued travel warnings or travel alerts to your destination of choice. The warnings and alerts are issued to protect travelers from terrorist threats, volatile political situations, health conditions, unrest, and local crime and violence. Travel warnings are issued to countries that the US Government perceives as having long-term conditions that make a visit to the country dangerous. Travel warnings are issued country by country, and the current list is maintained on the current travel warnings page of the US Department of State website. The following countries as of March 2, 2009 are among those listed that meet the criteria to be on the Travel Warning list:
Sudan: Due to threats the violence due to the country’s current conflicts.
Pakistan: The presence of Al-Qaida and the Taliban put American citizens in danger of becoming victims of terrorist activity.
Nigeria: There is tension between Muslims and Christians and between ethnic groups. There is also the threat of violent crime.
Yemen: Risks are high due to terrorist activities.
Zimbabwe: Civil unrest and an inadequate public health system.
International travelers should regularly check and monitor the US Department of State's website for updates on Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts.
Americans traveling abroad should always register with the local Embassy, and this can be done online at the US Department of State's website. Travelers should also be prepared in case an emergency situation arises. The US Department of States lists some general advice which includes information such as:
- Recommending that citizens keep vital documents (passports, bank records, birth and marriage certificates) in one easily accessible place;
- Ensure that documents are valid and up to date
- Keep US visas current if they are required for re-entry into the US
- Maintain a record of household inventory
- Keep enough food and water in the event of an emergency
In the event of a situation where an evacuation is required within the country a citizen is visiting or working. The US State department has an evacuation plan to help citizens who wish to leave.
Traveling internationally can be safe, if the right precautions are taken beforehand. The US Department of State is determined to protect the safety of Americans abroad and has put contingency plans in place; it is up to travelers to know what the plans are.