State Department warns of travel to European sports events

The U.S. State Department has issued a travel alert warning Americans going to Europe this summer that large sporting events could be terrorist targets.

The European Soccer Championships and the Tour de France are two key events in France that terrorists might target. The two events stretch from mid June to late July.

"The large number of tourists visiting Europe in the summer months will present greater targets for terrorists planning attacks in public locations, especially at large events," the alert -- in effect through August -- states.

But other events like the Catholic Church's World Youth Day in Krakow, Poland July 26-31 could leave some vulnerable, as the event will likely strain the country's infrastructure. The alert warns American travelers to "be prepared to show their passport and undergo stricter security screening throughout Poland."

The alert also offers other tips:

Exercise vigilance when in public places or using mass transportation. Be aware of immediate surroundings and avoid crowded places. Follow the instructions of local authorities, especially in an emergency.

 Monitor media and local event information sources and factor updated information into your travel plans and activities. Be prepared for additional security screening and unexpected disruptions.

Stay in touch with your family, have a plan if you are separated and ensure they know how to reach you in the event of an emergency.

European authorities continue to take steps to assure public safety and disrupt terrorist plots. We work closely with our allies and will continue to share information with our European partners that will help identify and counter terrorist threats.
 [upi.com]
31/5/16