US citizens in Ireland get safety advice

IRELAND: The United States embassy in Dublin has issued "precautionary" safety advice to US citizens living in the Republic, …

IRELAND: The United States embassy in Dublin has issued "precautionary" safety advice to US citizens living in the Republic, though it warned against panic.

The embassy said US citizens should keep all vital documents, such as passports, birth and marriage records, and bank records, in one place, and immediately available. The briefing note was issued by the embassy following a general worldwide warning from the US Department of State to all US citizens living abroad.

"Make or update as necessary a complete inventory of your household effects, in duplicate. Maintain an adequate supply of food, water, and necessary medications in your home. Make sure your car is in good working order. Keep the gas tank full and check oil, coolant, tires, and battery. We do not want American citizens to become unduly alarmed.

"These are precautionary measures only. Given the potential for acts of violence, terrorism, or anti-American demonstrations, we believe it is important for all citizens to maintain readiness for all possibilities in case of an emergency. We will promptly inform you of any significant developments and advise you accordingly," said the embassy note, which was sparked by a warning circular from the US Department of State. "The US embassy in Dublin and the Department of State have no reason to believe that there is a specific threat against American citizens in Ireland at this time," said the embassy.The embassy asked US citizens to share the information in the e-mail "as widely as possible with other Americans known to you".

Mark Hennessy

Mark Hennessy

Mark Hennessy is Ireland and Britain Editor with The Irish Times