The United States issues a safety alert for travelers visiting the popular Caribbean island

The US State Department has issued a safety alert for tourists visiting a popular island in the Caribbean. This is part of the regular mobilization of embassies and consulates to ask their citizens to be aware of risks arising from events such as demonstrations, crime trends and weather events.

Last Friday, January 26, a travel advisory was issued for the Bahamas, classified as level two out of four, to indicate the severity of the country’s threats and prepare measures if necessary to protect US citizens. A notice from officials said travelers should “take extra care” due to an increase in crime.

According to a State Department statement, most of the crimes occur on the islands of New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport). In that sense, they ask their citizens present in the Bahamas to be more vigilant in the area known as Over the Hill, as violence between gangs has increased the homicide rate which mainly affects the local population.

“Be vigilant when staying at short-term vacation rental properties where private security companies are not present,” the report highlights. Travelers are also advised that activities involving commercial recreational vessels, including water tours, are not consistently regulated and may be poorly maintained and some operators may not have certificates.

Americans are also alerted to local marine and weather alarms before engaging in water activities, as boat operators have the discretion to operate boats regardless of weather forecasts, leading to accidents with injuries and deaths.

How serious is America’s alert?

In their notice, they point out that violent crimes, such as robberies and sexual assaults, occur both in tourist areas and outside them. However, the Bahamas’ Level Two travel alert is also in effect for several vacation destinations around the world, including Mexico, the Dominican Republic and France.

According to the Bahamas National Security Report prepared by the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC), the city of Nassau was assessed as a “critical threat” location and Freeport as a “critical threat” area. High threat for crimes directed at the official United States government interests.

They also included a “C” crime indicator in the travel warning, indicating that the country may have widespread violent crime and/or organized crime, and/or that local authorities may have limited capacity to respond to serious crimes. Most incidents involving US citizens living in the Bahamas are robberies or property crimes.

Tips for traveling to the Bahamas

The Bahamas is an archipelago located north of Cuba and consists of about 700 islands and cays, of which only about 30 are inhabited. The nation stretches over 800 kilometers and is located about 100 kilometers off the southeast coast of the state of Florida. It is accessible by air and sea, as visitors can travel on commercial and charter flights, ferries, cruise lines, private planes and pleasure boats.

The United States recommends that visitors to the Bahamas never swim alone, regardless of age or skill level, to stay safe in the water. “Be careful of sharks while swimming and doing water activities, as there have been fatal and non-fatal incidents recently,” he warns.

If you decide to travel to the Bahamas, it is recommended that:

Do not open the door to your hotel or accommodation unless you know who it is.

Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.

Be part of the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and facilitate your location in the event of an emergency.

Follow the social networks of the North American Department of State.

Review the Bahamas National Security Report.

Prepare a contingency plan for medical and emergency situations.