WASHINGTON -- The State Department urged U.S. citizens traveling
abroad in late 1999 or early 2000 to "complete their contingency
plans for any possible Y2K-related disruptions in vital services."
The "worldwide public announcement" came on the heels of a
"worldwide caution" that warned travelers of possible terrorist
attacks against U.S. citizens from now through early January.
The department advised U.S. travelers to monitor its Y2K status
reports on foreign countries on the Internet at travel.state.gov/y2kca.html.
Travelers with medical conditions were advised to "consider
carefully the advisability of overseas travel during this
period."
The department warned travelers that U.S. embassies and
consulates will not be able to provide "food, water, fuel,
medicines, shelter or other equipment and supplies" if essential
services are disrupted.
Travelers should "review their own contingency plans" if
electrical, heat, water and telephone services are disrupted while
they are abroad, it said.
The department said its Web site is linked to other sites with
information on winter preparedness and food and water storage.
Other advice from the State Department to turn-of-the-year
travelers:
Register with U.S. embassies or consulates.Apply immediately for new passports or visas if they are about
to expire.Check to see if health insurance policies cover Y2K-related
problems such as medical evacuation.Take travelers checks as well as credit cards.Consider buying trip cancellation insurance.Expect possible flight delays and "give yourself plenty of time
if your itinerary includes connecting flights.""Consult your airline, cruise line, tour operator, hotel and
travel agent about contingency plans" for Y2K-related delays,
cancellations and disruptions.Get written confirmation of reservations.Pack essential items, such as medicines and a list of emergency
contacts, in carry-on bags.