Travel Alert USA: Your Comprehensive Guide to Safety and Security in the United States

The United States, a vast and diverse nation, attracts millions of tourists every year with its iconic landmarks, vibrant cities, and stunning natural landscapes. From the bustling streets of New York City to the sunny beaches of California, and the majestic mountains of Colorado, the USA offers a plethora of experiences for every traveler. However, like any popular destination, it’s essential to be informed and prepared to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. This Travel Alert Usa guide provides comprehensive information on safety and security concerns, helping you navigate your travels with confidence and peace of mind.

Safety and Security in the USA

While the United States is generally a safe country to visit, it’s crucial to be aware of potential risks and take necessary precautions. The overall risk level is considered to be at a level where normal security precautions should be taken, but specific areas and situations may warrant increased vigilance.

Border with Mexico: Increased Caution Advised

Travelers planning to visit or cross the border with Mexico should exercise increased caution. Certain border areas, particularly in states like California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, have seen a rise in criminal activities linked to drug trafficking.

If you are crossing the U.S.–Mexico border by car:

Remain extremely vigilant of your surroundings.
Use only officially recognized border crossings.
Avoid traveling at night when visibility is reduced and risks may be higher.

Crime: Awareness is Key

Like many countries, the USA experiences crime, and it’s important for travelers to be aware of different types of criminal activities.

Petty Crime: Protect Your Valuables

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is a concern, especially in crowded urban centers and popular tourist spots.

Never leave bags or valuables unattended, particularly in parked cars, including rental vehicles, even if they are placed in the trunk.
Ensure your belongings, including passports and travel documents, are secure at all times, using hotel safes or money belts when necessary.

Violent Crime: Stay Informed and Alert

Violent crime in major urban areas is more prevalent in poorer neighborhoods, especially during evening and nighttime hours. Intoxication often plays a role in these incidents. While tourists are less likely to be targets, it’s important to be cautious.

Be mindful of your surroundings at all times, especially when exploring unfamiliar areas.
Check official neighborhood crime statistics online before venturing out, particularly in the evening. Many police departments provide online crime maps and data.
If confronted by robbers, remain calm and do not resist. Your safety is paramount.

Image: The FBI’s Crime Data Explorer website provides valuable information on crime statistics across the United States, helping travelers make informed decisions about safety.

Gun Violence: Understanding the Risk

The United States has a high rate of firearm ownership, and in many states, it is legal for citizens to openly carry firearms in public. Sadly, mass shootings do occur, often resulting in casualties. While tourists are rarely directly involved, there is a risk of being in a public place during such an event.

Familiarize yourself with how to respond to an active shooter situation. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency offers resources and guides.

Image: A quick reference guide from CISA providing essential steps to take during an active shooter event, crucial for enhancing personal safety awareness.

Home Break-ins: Secure Your Accommodation

If you are staying in a holiday home or rental property, be aware of the risk of break-ins and burglaries.

Always lock windows and doors securely at night and when you are away from your accommodation. Consider using additional security measures if available.

Common Criminal Strategies: Be Aware of Ploys

Criminals may use ploys to target visitors, particularly on highways near airports or tourist destinations.

Be wary of drivers signaling you to stop due to a supposed issue with your vehicle.
Criminals may also throw objects at your windshield to force you to pull over.

If you suspect such a ploy:

Do not pull over on the side of the road.
Turn on your hazard lights and slowly drive to a safe, populated area such as a gas station or police station.

Demonstrations: Avoid and Monitor

Demonstrations and protests can occur in cities across the USA. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent unexpectedly and may cause disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Avoid areas where demonstrations or large gatherings are taking place.
Follow instructions from local authorities if you encounter a demonstration.
Monitor local media for updates and information on any ongoing demonstrations.

Image: Visual reminder to be cautious and informed about mass gatherings and large-scale events for personal safety during travel.

Fraud: Protect Your Finances

Credit card and ATM fraud, including debit card cloning, is a concern.

Pay close attention when your cards are being handled by others, especially in restaurants or shops.
Use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside banks or businesses.
Avoid using card readers that appear irregular or unusual.
Cover the keypad when entering your PIN at ATMs and point-of-sale terminals.
Regularly check your account statements for any unauthorized transactions.

Image: A visual prompt emphasizing the importance of vigilance against overseas fraud during travel.

Terrorism: Be Vigilant in Public Places

There is a persistent threat of terrorism in the United States, and attacks could occur at any time. Potential targets include:

Government buildings and schools
Places of worship
Airports and transportation hubs
Public areas like tourist attractions, restaurants, shopping centers, and hotels
Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places and report any suspicious activity to authorities.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) operates a public alert system, the National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS), to disseminate information about terrorist threats.

Image: The official banner of the National Terrorism Advisory System, highlighting its role in communicating vital information about terrorist threats.

Hiking and Mountaineering: Safety First in Nature

For those planning outdoor activities like hiking, backpacking, or skiing:

Never engage in these activities alone.
Hire an experienced guide from a reputable company.
Purchase travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation.
Obtain detailed information on hiking routes or ski slopes before setting out and stay on marked trails.
Ensure your physical condition is suitable for the planned activities.
Be properly equipped and informed about weather and potential hazards.
Inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including expected return time.
Learn about the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be serious and even fatal at high elevations.

Air Travel: Standard Safety Measures

We generally do not provide assessments on the compliance of domestic U.S. airlines with international safety standards, but air travel within the USA is generally considered safe and well-regulated.

Entry and Exit Requirements for the USA

Entry and exit requirements are determined by each country. The U.S. authorities set the rules for entering and exiting the United States. It’s crucial to ensure you meet these requirements before traveling.

Passport Requirements

Proof of Canadian citizenship is required for entry into the U.S. Several documents are accepted.

Travel by Air: Specific Document Needs

Canadian citizens flying to the United States must present one of the following:

A valid passport, valid for the duration of your stay.
A valid NEXUS card, for use at self-serve kiosks at designated airports.

This is mandatory for all Canadian citizens, including children, traveling by air to or even transiting through the U.S.

Travel by Land or Water: WHTI Compliance

Under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), Canadian citizens aged 16 and older entering the U.S. by land or water must present:

A valid passport.
A Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI, Global Entry, FAST).
An Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) or Enhanced Identification Card (EIC) from participating provinces/territories.
A Secure Certificate of Indian Status.

These documents must be valid for your entire stay.

For Canadian citizens aged 15 and under entering by land or water, acceptable documents include:

A passport.
An original or copy of a birth certificate.
An original Canadian citizenship certificate.

Visas: Who Needs One?

Canadian visitors generally can stay in the U.S. for up to 6 months without a visa. You must declare your intended stay duration upon arrival.

Generally, Canadian citizens don’t require visas for tourist, business, or transit purposes when entering from Canada, but exceptions exist.

Canadian Permanent Residents: Visa May Be Required

Canadian permanent residents may need a non-immigrant visa to enter the United States. This visa must be obtained from U.S. authorities before travel, along with a valid passport from your country of citizenship.

Visa Waiver Program (VWP): ESTA for Eligible Nationalities

Citizens of countries in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) don’t need a visa for stays up to 90 days. However, they must obtain pre-travel authorization via the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before departure.

U.S. Permanent Residents: Green Card Required

Canadians who are U.S. permanent residents must present a valid U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) for entry.

First Nations and Native Americans: Special Provisions

Members of Canada’s First Nations and Native Americans born in Canada can freely enter the United States for employment, study, retirement, investment, or immigration.

Working in the United States: Specific Documentation

Most Canadian business travelers can apply for admission at a U.S. port of entry without a non-immigrant visa. However, specific business categories require particular documents to demonstrate eligibility. If you plan to work in the U.S., contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for detailed requirements.

Studying in the United States: SEVIS Registration

Canadian citizens don’t need visas for study or student exchange programs in the U.S. However, registration with SEVIS, the U.S. student tracking system, is mandatory. Students must present their SEVIS registration form to CBP officers upon each entry.

Length of Stay: Adhere to Limits

If you wish to stay longer than 6 months, apply for an extension at a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office within the U.S. before your authorized stay expires. Immigration officers may require proof that you are a temporary visitor.

Overstaying your authorized period can lead to serious consequences, including detention and deportation. While there’s no fixed waiting period to re-enter after an authorized stay, CBP officers may scrutinize frequent or lengthy visits to ensure you’re not attempting to reside in the U.S.

Biometrics: Fingerprints and Photos

Upon entry, non-U.S. citizens typically provide biometrics like digital fingerprints and a photograph. Most Canadian citizens are exempt, except those who:

Need a visa or waiver of ineligibility.
Require an I-94 Arrival/Departure Record form.

Random screenings of exempt Canadians have occurred. If you believe your information was wrongfully collected, address it with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Electronic Devices: Searches at the Border

U.S. border agents have the authority to search your electronic devices (phones, computers, tablets) upon entry. They don’t need a specific reason to request access, including passwords. Refusal may lead to device seizure, travel delays, or denial of entry (if you are not a U.S. citizen).

Before crossing, set your devices to airplane mode to prevent accidental remote downloads.

Preclearance: U.S. Entry in Canada

Preclearance facilities at Canadian airports allow for U.S. entry clearance before departure. You will be interviewed by a U.S. preclearance officer who can inspect luggage and refuse entry. Canadian law applies in preclearance areas, and knowingly making false statements is an offense under Canada’s Preclearance Act. You can withdraw your request to enter the U.S. unless an officer suspects wrongdoing under Canadian law.

Criminal Record: Potential Entry Issues

A criminal record, regardless of severity or age, may result in denied entry to the U.S., even for transit. A Canadian pardon is not recognized under U.S. law. If ineligible, you can apply for a temporary waiver of inadmissibility via a U.S. embassy or consulate, or at land borders. U.S. ports of entry have computerized databases with criminal records from both countries. Past entries without issue do not guarantee future entry if a criminal record is found or a previous denial surfaces. Attempting entry without a waiver could lead to detention and a permanent ban.

Cannabis: Illegal at Federal Level

Despite cannabis legalization in some U.S. states, it remains illegal under U.S. federal law. Crossing the Canada-U.S. border with any amount of cannabis is illegal and can result in prosecution, fines, and potential jail time. Even if traveling to a state where cannabis is legal, do not attempt to bring it across the border.

Boating in U.S. Waters: Reporting Requirements

Operators of small pleasure vessels arriving in the U.S. from a foreign port must immediately report their arrival to U.S. Customs and Border Protection for inspection at a designated location. Exceptions may apply, including under the Nexus Marine program.

Cruises: Passport Essential

A valid Canadian passport is mandatory for cruises departing from the United States. Many visited countries require passports, and it is essential for re-entry into the U.S. at the cruise’s end. Cruise lines may retain passports for administrative purposes and U.S. immigration clearance. If your passport is held, obtain a receipt, ensure its return at the cruise end, and always carry a photocopy.

Pets: Health and Documentation

Pets must appear healthy upon inspection at U.S. ports of entry. Evidence of poor health may lead to examination, testing at your expense, or denial of entry. Additional requirements may include import permits, health/export certificates, and proof of vaccinations (e.g., rabies). Quarantine may also be imposed.

Children and Travel: Consent for Group Travel

Canadian citizens under 19 traveling with school or organized groups under adult supervision must have written consent from their parent/guardian.

Yellow Fever: Check Requirements

Refer to the health section for potential entry requirements related to yellow fever vaccination.

Health Considerations for Travel to the USA

Travel Health Notices: Stay Updated

This section provides information on potential health risks and restrictions in the USA. Consult a health professional or travel health clinic ideally 6 weeks before travel for personalized advice.

Routine Vaccines: Ensure You Are Up-to-Date

Ensure your routine vaccinations are current, as per Canadian provincial/territorial guidelines. These include MMR, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella, and influenza.

Pre-Travel Vaccines and Medications: Discuss with a Professional

You may be at risk for preventable diseases in the USA. Discuss necessary vaccines or medications with a travel health professional based on your destination and itinerary.

Yellow Fever:

Risk: No risk of yellow fever in the USA.
Entry Requirement: Proof of vaccination is not required for entry.
Recommendation: Vaccination is not generally recommended.

Measles:

Measles is highly contagious. Ensure you are fully protected against measles before international travel.

Hepatitis B:

Hepatitis B is a risk worldwide. Vaccination is recommended for all travelers, especially those potentially exposed to blood or bodily fluids. Practice safe sex, avoid sharing needles, and ensure safe tattooing/piercing practices.

Influenza (Flu):

Annual flu vaccination is recommended, ideally 2 weeks before travel. Flu seasons vary by hemisphere. Practice good hand hygiene and wear a mask if symptomatic.

COVID-19:

Complete a COVID-19 vaccine series and recommended boosters before travel. Check destination-specific COVID-19 requirements. Vaccination significantly reduces the risk of severe illness.

Rabies:

Rabies is present in some wildlife, including bats, in the USA. Seek medical attention immediately if bitten or scratched by an animal. Discuss rabies vaccination with a health professional if you will be working with wildlife.

Safe Food and Water Precautions: Minimize Risks

Many illnesses are food and waterborne.

Follow safe food and water practices: “Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!”.
Avoid swallowing water while swimming or showering.

Insect Bite Prevention: Protect Against Diseases

Diseases like Zika virus and Dengue fever are spread by insect bites.

Use insect repellent on exposed skin.
Wear light-colored, loose, tightly woven clothing.
Minimize insect exposure.
Use mosquito netting when sleeping in non-enclosed spaces.

Zika Virus:

Zika virus is a risk in some U.S. areas and can cause birth defects. Prevent mosquito bites and practice safe sex, especially if pregnant or planning pregnancy.

Dengue Fever:

Dengue risk is sporadic in the USA. Protect yourself from mosquito bites, particularly during daytime hours. There is no vaccine for Dengue.

Animal Precautions: Avoid Contact

Avoid contact with animals to prevent infections like rabies and avian influenza. Supervise children closely around animals.

Avian Influenza (Bird Flu):

Human cases have been reported in the USA. Avoid contact with birds (wild, farm, backyard) and surfaces contaminated with bird droppings. Ensure poultry and eggs are well-cooked. Higher-risk travelers include those visiting live animal markets, poultry farms, or working with wild birds. Seasonal flu shots are recommended to reduce the risk of co-infection with human and avian influenza viruses.

Person-to-Person Infections: Practice Hygiene

Stay home if sick and practice cough/sneeze etiquette. Reduce the risk of colds, flu, and other infections by frequent handwashing, avoiding crowded spaces, and limiting close contact with symptomatic individuals.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), HIV, and Mpox:

STIs, HIV, and mpox are transmitted through bodily fluids. Practice safe sex, use condoms, and limit sexual partners. Consult your public health authority about mpox vaccine eligibility.

Medical Services and Facilities: High Quality but Expensive

Healthcare in the USA is excellent and widely available. However, treatment costs are very high. Emergency care must be provided regardless of ability to pay, but all services will be charged. Travel health insurance is essential, including coverage for medical evacuation and hospitalization.

Medication: Regulations and Restrictions

The U.S. has restrictions on importing certain prescription drugs. Some over-the-counter Canadian medications may require a prescription in the U.S.

Bring sufficient medication quantities.
Have a physician’s note explaining your condition, if applicable.

Keep in Mind: Traveler Responsibility

Travelers are responsible for their safety and preparedness. Medical services may differ from Canadian standards. Pack a travel health kit, especially for travel outside major cities.

Laws and Culture in the USA

Abide by Local Laws: State Variations

You must obey local laws, which vary significantly by state. Consult state-specific websites before your visit.

Penalties and Transfer of Offenders: Serious Consequences

Serious law violations can lead to jail sentences or, in some states, the death penalty. Canadian citizenship offers no special protections. Jail sentences are served in U.S. prisons unless a transfer to a Canadian prison is approved by both countries under a treaty.

Drugs: Severe Penalties

Penalties for drug possession, use, or trafficking are severe, including lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.

Cannabis:

Despite state-level legalization, cannabis is federally illegal. Do not cross the Canada-U.S. border with any cannabis, even if traveling to a legal state. Legal prosecution, fines, and jail time are possible.

Prescription Medication:

Personal medication is subject to U.S. import laws. Generally, a 90-day supply is allowed. U.S. Customs and Border Protection has discretion over allowing Canadian-purchased medications. When bringing prescription medication:

Carry only the quantity needed for your stay plus one week’s supply.
Keep medication in original packaging with dispensary labels showing your name, drug name, dosage, and DIN.
Have a duplicate prescription listing generic and trade names.
Obtain a physician’s note explaining your condition and need for syringes, if applicable.

2SLGBTQI+ Persons: State Laws Vary

Some states have enacted laws and policies affecting 2SLGBTQI+ individuals. Check relevant state and local laws before traveling.

Dual Citizenship: Limited Consular Assistance

Dual citizenship is recognized in the U.S. If you are a dual U.S.-Canadian citizen, Canadian consular services may be limited. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

International Child Abduction: Hague Convention

The Hague Convention on International Child Abduction applies between Canada and the U.S. If your child is wrongfully taken to or held in the U.S., act quickly, contact your provincial/territorial Central Authority, consult lawyers in both countries, and report to the nearest Canadian government office or Global Affairs Canada.

Expedited Removal: No Formal Appeal

U.S. Customs and Border Protection can bar non-citizens for five years for presenting false documents or misrepresenting themselves. Lying to customs officials is a serious offense. There is no formal appeal process for expedited removal, but you can request supervisory review from USCIS.

Imports and Exports: Declare Everything

Contact the specific U.S. Customs and Border Protection office at your planned border crossing for the latest information on import/export allowances and restrictions, which change frequently. Declare all items at your entry point.

Travel to Cuba from the United States: Restrictions Apply

U.S. sanctions restrict travel between the U.S. and Cuba for tourism purposes. Travel from the U.S. to Cuba is permitted only under specific authorized categories.

Driving: Valid Canadian License Accepted

You can drive in the U.S. with a valid Canadian driver’s license. Traffic laws vary by state.

Automobile Insurance:

Many states require mandatory auto insurance and proof of insurance. Check state-specific motor vehicle department information. If driving to Mexico from the U.S., you may need to purchase Mexican liability insurance.

Hitchhiking: Avoid Border Areas

Never cross the border with a hitchhiker or as a hitchhiker. Be cautious about who and what you carry in your vehicle, as you could be held responsible for passengers’ actions and belongings.

Money: U.S. Dollar is Currency

The U.S. dollar (USD) is the currency. Canadian currency and personal checks are not widely accepted. Most banking requires a U.S. bank account. There’s no limit on money taken into or out of the U.S., but amounts over US$10,000 (cash, checks, money orders, etc.) must be declared to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Failure to declare can result in penalties, including currency seizure.

Natural Disasters and Climate Considerations in the USA

Climate Change: Increasing Extreme Weather

Climate change is impacting the USA, leading to more frequent extreme weather events that may affect travel. Monitor local media for updates.

Hurricane Season: Coastal Risks

Hurricanes typically occur:

May to November in the eastern Pacific (including Hawaii and Guam).
June to November in the Atlantic, Caribbean, and Gulf of Mexico.

Hurricanes pose serious safety risks and can disrupt essential services. If traveling during hurricane season:

Be aware of safety risks.
Be prepared to change travel plans quickly, including trip cancellation.
Stay informed about weather forecasts.
Carry airline/tour operator emergency contacts.
Follow local authorities’ advice.

Flooding and Landslides: Heavy Rain Impacts

Heavy rains can cause flooding and landslides, making roads impassable and damaging infrastructure. Exercise caution near rivers, stay informed about weather, and follow evacuation orders.

Earthquakes: Risk in Specific States

Earthquake risk is present in Alaska, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, and Washington State. If in earthquake-prone areas, familiarize yourself with emergency procedures.

Heat and Humidity: Summer Precautions

Heat and humidity can be severe, especially from June to September, particularly in the South and Southwest. Know the signs of dehydration and heatstroke, which can be fatal.

Bush and Forest Fires: Common Summer Hazard

Bush and forest fires are common, especially in summer, across much of the USA. Wildfires are most frequent during dry, hot periods. Air quality can deteriorate due to smoke. In case of fire:

Avoid affected areas, especially if you have respiratory issues.
Follow emergency personnel instructions, including evacuations.
Monitor local media.

Tornadoes: Central, Midwest, and Southern States

Tornadoes are a risk, particularly in central, mid-west, and southern states. They can occur with little warning. Monitor local news and weather reports and follow official instructions.

Volcanoes: Active Volcano Areas

Active volcanoes exist in the USA. Eruptions can disrupt air travel and degrade air quality. Monitor local media, follow authorities’ advice, and be prepared for travel changes or evacuation.

Tsunamis: Hawaii Coastal Risk

Hawaii is prone to tsunamis, often triggered by nearby earthquakes. Tsunami risk can persist for hours after a tremor. If staying on the coast, understand local tsunami evacuation plans.

This travel alert USA guide is designed to help you stay informed and safe during your travels in the United States. Always check for the most up-to-date travel advisories and local information before and during your trip. By staying informed and prepared, you can maximize your safety and enjoyment while exploring all that the USA has to offer.