Security Message for United States Citizens
October 8, 2014
Bomb explosion in Taunggyi
While there are no known specific threats against U.S. citizens in Burma, the recent explosion of one bomb and the discovery of two other unexploded bombs near police offices in Taunggyi, Shan State, prompt the Embassy to advise U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Taunggyi to exercise good situational awareness, especially in the approach to the upcoming Thadingyut Festival.
Stay clear of all demonstrations or large public gatherings, including festival crowds. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence without warning. If you see something suspicious, leave the area immediately and report it to local authorities. Do not touch, move, or tamper with any suspicious package.
Review your personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including at local events; and monitor local news stations for updates. Maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security. We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Burma enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at www.Travel.State.Gov. STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to contact you in an emergency. If you don’t have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Regularly monitor the State Department’s website, where you can find current Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution. Read the Country Specific Information for Burma. For additional information, refer to the “Traveler’s Checklist” on the State Department’s website.
Contact the U.S. Embassy in Rangoon for up-to-date information on travel restrictions. You can also call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Follow us on Twitter and Facebook, and download our free Smart Traveler iPhone App to have travel information at your fingertips.
The U.S. Embassy in Rangoon is located at 110 University Avenue, Kamayut Township, and is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. M-F. The Embassy Telephone is (95)-(1)-536-509. If you are a U.S. citizen in need of urgent assistance, the emergency number for the U.S. Embassy is (95)-(9)-512-4330. If calling the 24 Hour Embassy Telephone, explain that you want to speak to the Duty Officer or a Consular Officer.
