Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens

U.S. Embassy Kampala, Uganda
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens
Holiday Season Crime Threat

December 7, 2011

The U.S. Embassy reminds U.S. citizens that the crime rate in Uganda typically increases significantly around the holidays.  It is especially important to review your personal security measures during this period.  Below please find some suggestions for increasing your personal security awareness.

Facts about crime:

1. Crime increases after sunset.
2. Criminals select victims they consider easy targets (i.e. unaware of their surroundings).

General security measures:

1. Program emergency numbers into your cell phone.  Always carry your phone/radio.
2. Always carry your ID or a copy of your passport.
3. Remain aware of your surroundings at all times and avoid suspicious persons or activity.
4. Do not carry items or sums of money you are not willing to part with.
5. If you are threatened with violence over money or belongings, comply with the demands and end the confrontation as quickly as possible.
6. If you believe you are in danger of being killed or seriously injured regardless of your compliance with demands, you should weigh your options based on the situation.

What to do in your home:

1. Do not leave valuables or large amounts of cash unsecured in your house.
2. Only give your keys to a trusted person. 
3. Keep your doors and vehicle locked even when you are at home.
4. Keep your phone nearby when you are at home, including when you are sleeping.
5. When out of town, have a friend watch your home, and do not advertise your absence.

In your car:

1. Always have your keys ready as you approach your car, and be on the lookout for individuals who are waiting close to your car.  Maintain awareness at all times, especially when entering and exiting your vehicle.
2. Always leave enough space between you and the car ahead so that you cannot be boxed in.
3. Make sure your doors are locked and windows are up at all times while driving.
4. Wear your seat belt.
5. Never leave valuables in your vehicle.
6. Try to park in well-lit areas at night and do not park far from your intended destination.
7. Move directly from your car to your destination.
8. Know where hospitals and police stations are located on your daily routes.
 
While Walking:

1. Be alert to your surroundings, especially when walking around Kampala after dark.
2. Try to walk in groups.
3. Change direction or depart the area if you notice suspicious people, groups, or activity.
4. Never display cash or jewelry, and do not carry large amounts of cash or valuables.
5. Tightly secure your valuables (i.e. cameras, phones, wallets and purses) in crowded areas. 
6. Beware of street children, beggars, and vendors.  They are often distractions for pickpockets.
7. Avoid areas such as alleyways and overgrown brush where assailants can easily hide.

Police:

1. Program the numbers for your local police and emergency services into your cell phone and post them near phones in your home.
2. Always remember that while living and working in Uganda, U.S. citizens must obey local laws.
3. Police should not solicit bribes.  If they do, you should note the name of the police officer requesting the bribe and report the incident to:

Police Professional Standard Unit – (PSU) hotline at #080 020 0019

U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad are encouraged to enroll in the Department of State's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive the latest travel updates and information, and to obtain updated information on travel and security issues.  U.S. citizens without Internet access may register directly with the U.S. Embassy.  By enrolling, U.S. citizens make it easier for the U.S. Embassy to contact them in case of emergency.

The U.S. Embassy is located at Plot 1577 Ggaba Road.  Contact information for the U.S. Embassy in Kampala is: phone number (256) (0) (414) 306 001 or (256) (0) (414) 259 791, fax (256) (0) (414) 258 451, email KampalaUSCitizen@state.gov.

For the latest security information, U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Bureau of Consular Affairs website where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Alerts, Travel Warnings, and Country Specific Information can be found.  Current information on safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States, or for callers from other countries, 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).