US issues travel warning for Haiti

Washington, Dec 8 (Just News): US issued a travel warning for Haiti on Thursday.

The Department of State warns U.S. citizens to carefully consider the risks of traveling to Haiti due to its current security environment and lack of adequate medical facilities and response.  This is an update to the Travel Warning issued on September 12, 2017.

Kidnapping remains a threat, and armed robberies and violent assaults reported by U.S. citizens have risen in recent years.  Do not share specific travel plans with strangers.  Be aware that newly arrived travelers are targeted. Arrange to have your host or organization meet you at the airport upon arrival or pre-arranged airport to hotel transfers.  Embassy personnel are prohibited from visiting public banks and ATMs, which are often targeted by criminals.  Fewer incidents of crime are reported outside of Port-au-Prince, but Haitian authorities' ability to respond to emergencies is limited and in some areas nonexistent.  U.S. Embassy employees are discouraged from walking in city neighborhoods, including in Petionville, during daylight, and are prohibited from walking in city neighborhoods, including Petionville, after dark.  Visit only establishments with secured parking lots.  U.S. Embassy personnel are under a curfew from 1:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m.  Embassy personnel must receive permission from the Embassy security officer to travel to some areas of Port-au-Prince, thus limiting the Embassy’s ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens.

Protests, including tire burning and road blockages, are frequent and often spontaneous.  Avoid all demonstrations.  The Haitian National Police's ability to assist U.S. citizens during disturbances is limited.  Have your own plans for quickly exiting the country if necessary.

Medical care infrastructure, ambulances, and other emergency services are limited throughout Haiti.  Check that your organization has reliable infrastructure, evacuation, and medical support in place.  Comprehensive medical evacuation insurance is strongly advised for all travelers.

 (Just News/ys/2350hr)