The Foreign Office has urged UK tourists to “stay away” from mass gatherings and demonstrations in a new travel warning
The Foreign Office has urged UK tourists to “stay away” from mass gatherings and demonstrations in a new travel warning(Image: Mario Tama/Getty Images)
UK tourists in the United States have been issued a new safety warning by the Foreign Office.
The official body has issued guidance over responding to protests across the US, as well as in American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and United States Virgin Islands.
Advice for keeping yourself safe while in the country comes after a series of protests over immigration raids in the US were reported in different states.
The FCDO’s guidance heavily emphasises being prepared and ensuring you keep away from any “mass gatherings and demonstrations.”
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Its update read: ” Protests are ongoing in cities and towns across the US. You should:
- “monitor local media and follow the advice of the local authorities
- “plan ahead to avoid disruption
- “stay away from mass gatherings and demonstrations”
The Foreign Office also has a separate page focused directly on crime in the country, which includes a sub section on protests.
FCDO guidelines explain how protests “are common” and “can become violent,” emphasising how important it is to follow the instructions of the local authorities.
The body said: “Protests are common and can become violent.
“Follow the instructions of local authorities who may introduce curfews or emergency orders.”
Those opting to attend peaceful protests should:
- be mindful of your surroundings
- move away if there are signs of trouble
- follow the instructions of local authorities
Other advice the Foreign Office included under the ‘Crime’ section, included guidance on protecting your belongings, and violent crime.
It is recommended you do not leave your passports in a rental car, and especially not in the boot.
The FCDO explained this was due to the fact gangs may target vehicles driven by individuals who look like tourists.
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Instructions on how to respond to the threat of violent crime is also included by the body: “Violent crime and gun crime rarely affect tourists, but take care in unfamiliar areas.
“Try not to walk through quieter areas alone, especially at night. You can find public advisories and information about recent incidents on local law enforcement websites.
“Mass shooting incidents can happen but are a very small percentage of murders. The US Department of Homeland Security has advice on what to do in an active shooter incident.
“Research your destination before you travel and follow the advice of local authorities. Crime linked to illegal drugs is a major issue in Mexican states bordering Arizona, California, New Mexico and Texas.
“Some foreign nationals have been victims of crime in the border regions, but there is no evidence they were targeted because of their nationality.”