The U.S. State Department through its embassy in Nairobi has issued a warning to its citizens of an "imminent threat of terror attack" in Kenya and is urging travellers to put off travel to the African nation for now.
The embassy says it has credible information regarding possible attacks on Kenyan facilities where foreigners are known to frequent, including nightclubs, shopping malls and public squares.
There has already been one terror incident, a deadly attack on a popular nightclub.
Nightclub Bombed
A grenade was thrown into a well-known nightclub in the Kenyan capital Monday morning. 12 people were injured and sadly one was killed.
Kenyan authorities have been on alert since the kidnaping of a French tourist a week ago by the Somali-based group Al-Shabab. The militant group had threatened reprisals if police and defence forces didn't stop pursuing them.
However, as yet, it is not clear who is responsible for the nightclub attack as senior police have told reporters Al-Shabab is not connected to it - raising the possibility of more than one radical group being bent on violence.
Surviving a terror attack
Travellers involved or close to a terror incident are advised to exercise heightened security awareness and to follow the directives of local authorities. Here are a few safety first tips:
- Stay within the confines of your residence or accommodation.
- Do not go out into the public streets.
- Be alert to local news developments.
- Adhere to any imposed curfews or security restrictions.
- Be aware of conspicuous or unusual behaviour. Unusual behaviour and strange devices should be reported to the police or security personnel promptly.
- If you are in a building located close to the site of a terrorist attack, stay away from the windows.
- If in the vicinity of an attack, do not stay to watch what is happening, as you will only get in the way of the emergency services. There is also a risk that additional attacks may occur.
- Make a mental note of safe havens, such as police stations and hospitals.
If there's a bomb blast
- Leave the area as soon as possible
- Do not run you may be suspected as the bomber. If you are in a crowd stay at the fringes.
- Stay clear of glass shop fronts.
- If you are injured attend to yourself before others.
- Obey all instructions and orders that are given by local police.
- Make your way to a pre planned secure area.
- If you return to your hotel stay away from the windows.
- Listen to television and radio reports.
- Contact family or friends and let them know your situation.
- Write down what you saw before and after the blast it may help the authorities in their investigation.
If you are injured
If you are injured or become ill please seek medical aid and contact your 24-hour Medical Assistance Service (numbers below).
Be aware that any functioning hospitals and clinics will be busy caring for large numbers of people who have been injured in the incident.
Preparing for terrorism
Before visiting a country where there is a risk of terrorism you should first obtain as much information on that country as possible.
- When you arrive, stay away from those areas that may have been the target of terrorism in the past.
- Identify the main tourist areas and stay away from those which appear less secure.
- Make yourself aware of your surroundings. Be aware of the conduct of people near to you.
- Stay away from large gatherings or demonstrations.
- Know the telephone numbers of local police, hospitals and your Embassy.
- If you are with friends identify a rendezvous point to meet should there be an incident.
- Prepare a plan to evacuate should there be an incident.
- Know the telephone numbers of local transport and hire car companies.
What is happening to me and who do I call?
It is important to remember that the situation you are in can be extremely stressful.
Call home and your country's Consulate or Embassy to let them know where you are, if you are alright and if you need any assistance.
Keeping an item of comfort nearby, such as a family photo, favorite music, or religious material, can often offer comfort in such situations.
Call the emergency assistance hotlines should you need immediate attention (phone numbers below for WorldNomad's policy holders).
Emergency Assistance Contacts
Call the emergency assistance hotlines should you need immediate attention.Please have your name, location and phone number ready when you call (and policy number if available).
Click here for a list of 24 hour emergency assistance hotline numbers.
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