The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens residing or traveling in the state of Michoacan, Mexico, to be aware of recent violent attacks targeting state and federal police officials, and wishes to remind U.S. citizens of the Travel Alert for Mexico dated February 20, 2009. Several Mexican police officials have been killed at various locations throughout the state. The U.S. Embassy is not aware of any attempts to target U.S. citizens with this violence; however, citizens are advised to maintain awareness of their surroundings when travelling throughout the state and to avoid large crowds and demonstrations.
Actions to Take if Caught in the Middle of a Gunfight/Gunfire
The U.S. Embassy takes this opportunity to remind U.S. citizens of guidance sent on October 22, 2008, recommending the following courses of action to take if you find yourself in a situation in or near gunfire:
- Always be aware of your surroundings.
- Whenever possible, carry a cell-phone with up to date contact information for emergencies.
- When gunfire/explosions are heard, immediately move to a safe area with good cover. For example, look for something substantial to hide behind, seek cover in a room made of solid construction (e.g. concrete, steel, etc.), stay away from doors and windows, and do not venture out to try and observe the conflict.
- Immediately convey the sense of danger/threat to those around you.
- Do not attempt to move to a vehicle if you are in a safe area. Remain there until local security tells you that it is safe to move.
- Always carry information about your personal medical needs.
For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, Travel Warnings and Public Announcements can be found. Up to date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States, or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). American citizens traveling or residing overseas are encouraged to register with the appropriate U.S. Embassy or Consulate on the State Department's travel registration website at https://travelregistration.state.gov. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency.
For any emergencies involving U.S. citizens, please contact the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City, Office of American Citizens Services, Reforma Ave 305, Col Cuauhtemoc Mexico, D. F., Mexico CP 06500 Tel: (011)(52)(55) 5080-2000 or e-mail: ACSMexicoCity@state.gov. For additional information, please refer to the Embassy website: http://mexico.usembassy.gov. This warden message remains in effect until August 1, 2009.
U.S. Embassy Mexico City
American Citizens Services
Paseo de la Reforma #305
Col Cuauhtemoc; Mexico, D. F., Mexico CP 06500
Tel: (011)(52)(55) 5080-2000
e-mail: ACSMexicoCity@state.gov; website: http://mexico.usembassy.gov.
Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. & 3:00 to 5:00 p.m.
For after-hours, emergencies only, call (011)(52)(55) 5080-2000, ext. “0”, and ask to speak to a duty officer.
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