State Department Issues Global Travel Warning To Americans Abroad

The United States Department of State has issued a warnings for all Americans to be watchful of their surroundings following an increase in violence and kidnappings against American citizens abroad.

The warning was issued on Friday following the terrorist attacks in France, Australia and Canada.

“Recent terrorist attacks, whether by those affiliated with terrorist entities, copycats, or individual perpetrators, serve as a reminder that U.S. citizens need to maintain a high level of vigilance,” read the travel warning.

“Kidnappings and hostage events involving U.S. citizens have become increasingly prevalent as ISIL, al Qa`ida and its affiliates have increased attempts to finance their operations through kidnapping for ransom operations.”

The warning also cites an increased risk of reprisals against American and Western targets due to the U.S.-led intervention against ISIL (Islamic State) militants in Syria and Iraq.

The State Department urges all Americans to register their foreign trip using the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, also known as STEP. The STEP program emails American citizens of any imminent or ongoing danger in the country or region that they are traveling in, additionally it provides the nearest US Embassy of your presence in case of an emergency. Click here to register your foreign trip with the State Department.

I always use STEP when I travel abroad, it’s a great program. You never know what will happen so it’s better to be safe  than sorry, especially while in a foreign country.

Global, regional and targeted travel warnings can be found by visiting: http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/english.html