On March 19, 2004 the U.S. Department of State issued a new Worldwide Caution Public Announcement concerning the continuing threat of terrorist attacks. View at http://travel.state.gov

While most terrorist attacks are the result of long and careful planning; for the business traveler or tourist they are random & unpredictable acts. Although the chances of any of us being a victim of a terrorist act are slight, we can reduce our risk of being a target. Here are 10 things you can do to feel more secure on your next trip abroad.

1. 1. Make it a habit to avoid areas where Americans or Westerners are known to congregate such as restaurants and places of worship.
    
2. Minimize your time spent in public areas of the airport. Move quickly from the check in counter to the secured areas.
    
3. Avoid luggage tags with American flags & American insignias and avoid wearing clothing that identifies you as an American.
    
4. Upon arrival register at the local Embassy or Consulate. Phone numbers & addresses can be found at http://usembassy.state.gov In the event of a security threat or evacuation of U.S. citizen’s they will have a number to contact you.
    
5. Make a note of emergency telephone numbers such as police, fire, U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Know how to use a pay telephone and have the proper change or token in hand.
    
6. Learn a few phrases in the local language so you can signal for help if necessary.
    
7. Locate and keep a mental note of safe havens such as hospitals and hotels*.
   *Note: If you are in a country in the midst of civil unrest, hotels that are known to house Americans & American hotels may be the target of a terrorist attack.
    
8. Based on the risk factor in the country that you are visiting limit your use of bus and trains. See travel warnings and consular information sheets at http://travel.state.gov
    
9. Schedule direct flights when possible to avoid stops at high risk airports.
    
10. Fly at night when it is less likely that relatively unskilled terrorist pilots could successfully fly the plane into a ground target.

© 2004 Violence Free

If you would like permission to reprint our article in your company newsletter all you need to do is e-mail us at safety@violence-free.com or call us at 623-242-8797.
 

	Return to the Safety News index GO