Holiday Safety Notice December 16, 2015 The holiday season is always a special time of year. Unfortunately, it is easy to forget as we rush about our lives that Belgium is still under a Level 3 terrorism threat rating (described as an attack is possible or probable). This means that the Belgian authorities still believe that terrorists either could be in Belgium or are planning an attack here, although we have no information indicating a specific threat against Americans or American facilities, per se. One cannot stress enough the absolute necessity for US citizens to continue to maintain a heightened sense of awareness and continue to avoid large crowds or areas that might attract a substantial gathering of people. If you see something you deem suspect or someone acting suspiciously, report it immediately to the nearest police officer or soldier. Another concern that can sometimes be overlooked as we face the dangers of a heightened terrorism threat is the underlying criminal element that exists in Brussels, Antwerp, Gent, Bruges and other large cities throughout Belgium. Criminals will use any advantage to further their illicit activity, to include exploiting the authorities’ current focus on anti-terrorism operations. We must all remain committed to employing sound and prudent personal security practices during the holidays. Following these simple security safety tips will hopefully help keep the holidays happy and incident-free. Around the town: Be especially vigilant at train stations, restaurants, shopping areas, and on public transportation. Whenever possible, bring a friend with you. Criminals prefer to target persons traveling alone. Be wary of diversions. Pickpockets frequently work in teams to distract the victim while his/her valuables are stolen.
Holiday Safety Notice December 16, 2015 The holiday season is always a special time of year. Unfortunately, it is easy to forget as we rush about our lives that Belgium is still under a Level 3 terrorism threat rating (described as an attack is possible or probable). This means that the Belgian authorities still believe that terrorists either could be in Belgium or are planning an attack here, although we have no information indicating a specific threat against Americans or American facilities, per se. One cannot stress enough the absolute necessity for US citizens to continue to maintain a heightened sense of awareness and continue to avoid large crowds or areas that might attract a substantial gathering of people. If you see something you deem suspect or someone acting suspiciously, report it immediately to the nearest police officer or soldier. Another concern that can sometimes be overlooked as we face the dangers of a heightened terrorism threat is the underlying criminal element that exists in Brussels, Antwerp, Gent, Bruges and other large cities throughout Belgium. Criminals will use any advantage to further their illicit activity, to include exploiting the authorities’ current focus on anti-terrorism operations. We must all remain committed to employing sound and prudent personal security practices during the holidays. Following these simple security safety tips will hopefully help keep the holidays happy and incident-free. Around the town: Be especially vigilant at train stations, restaurants, shopping areas, and on public transportation. Whenever possible, bring a friend with you. Criminals prefer to target persons traveling alone. Be wary of diversions. Pickpockets frequently work in teams to distract the victim while his/her valuables are stolen.
Holiday%20Safety%20Notice_001.docx