by Donald Wood
Last updated: 11:45 AM ET, Tue May 2, 2017
The United States Department of State issued a travel alert Monday for Europe due to the threats of terrorist attacks throughout the continent this summer.
According to the travel alert, government officials are warning that recent attacks in France, Russia, Sweden and the United Kingdom prove that terrorist groups like ISIS, al-Qa'ida and their affiliates have the ability to plan and execute terrorist attacks in Europe.
Officials from the State Department revealed that the new travel alert was not prompted by any specific threat.
Instead, the decision to issue the alert was made due to the possible risk of an attack ahead of the summer holidays, according to Reuters.com.
The government's travel alert for Europe expires on Sep. 1.
American citizens are urged to exercise vigilance during the summer travel season when large crowds may be common, including at popular tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls and local government facilities.
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To help travelers remain safe if they do travel to Europe this summer, the State Department has released guidelines to ensure the security of U.S. citizens:
-Follow the instructions of local authorities. Monitor media and local information sources and factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities.
-Be prepared for additional security screening and unexpected disruptions.
-Stay in touch with your family members and ensure they know how to reach you in the event of an emergency.
-Have an emergency plan of action ready.
-Register in our Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
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