ShareAs noted in our Worldwide Caution, terrorist groups remain intent on targeting US citizens, our allies, and our interests. Terrorist groups have launched attacks during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan in the past. The US government remains highly concerned about possible attacks against US citizens, facilities, businesses, places of worship, and perceived US and western interests in the region and worldwide.
While we are not aware of specific threats against private US citizens in Kuwait, we encourage citizens to take steps to enhance their safety and security. US citizens should maintain a high level of vigilance, review personal security plans, and remain alert to their surroundings at all times. The following are common sense measures you and your family can take to increase your personal safety and security:
Stay Informed - Monitor the media for the latest security developments.
Avoid Crowds - Large gatherings can quickly become dangerous.
Keep A Low Profile - Be aware of how others dress and behave in public and try to blend in.
Vary Your Routes And Times Of Travel - Being less predictable makes you more difficult to target.
Be Aware Of Your Surroundings - Understand what "belongs" and what does not.
Avoid Traveling Alone - Avoid isolated areas, especially after dark. Tell friends, colleagues, or neighbors where you're going and when you intend to return.
Know Where You Are Going And Your Destination - Find exits and have a plan to escape. Select "safe havens" along your route, such as government buildings, friends' residences, shops or restaurants, or gas stations.
Always Carry A Charged Cell Phone - Make sure you have programmed emergency numbers in all your family members' phones.
Turn Off Location Services On Your Cell Phone Or Other Devices - Hackers can use those features to learn your location.
Never Post Or Otherwise Broadcast Your Location Or Where You Are Going - Only tell people where you have been, after you have departed.
Be Prepared To Postpone Or Cancel Activities.
Report concerns you may have to the police and to the US Embassy in Kuwait.
For further information:
* See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Worldwide Travel Alert, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Kuwait's Country Specific Information.
* Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
* Contact the US Embassy in Kuwait at 00-(965) 2259-1001 or 00-(965) 2538-6562 or fax: 00-(965) 2538-0282.
* Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except US federal holidays).
