The U.S. State Department issued a Canada wide security alert from its embassy in Ottawa in addition to alerts issued by the U.S. Consulate General in Vancouver, Toronto, Halifax and Quebec on Friday.
The bulletins read that the U.S. government is concerned that "terrorists are intent on targeting U.S. citizens, including children" but the travel advisory to Canada remains normal.
"Terrorists may employ a variety of tactics, such as violent assaults and kidnappings. In the past they have used knives, guns, and vehicles as ramming devices. They may target schools, hospitals, churches, tourist locations, transportation hubs, and other public venues," reads the post on the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Canada website.
The U.S. Consulate lists the following actions to take:
- Stay alert in public places, including schools, hospitals, churches, tourist locations, and transportation hubs.
- Review travel routes and times to reduce time and place predictability.
- Keep a low profile.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Review your personal security plans.
- Report social media threats to local authorities.
Karine Martel, spokesperson for Public Safety Canada, says the alert is not specific to Canada and that other U.S. Embassies and Consulates in other countries have issued a similar alert.
No further details were provided but if U.S. citizens need assistance they can contact the U.S. Consulate General in Vancouver.
