Driving Safety Reminder (04/30/2006)

Recent traffic accidents causing fatal injuries, particularly on the Dera’a to Damascus road, prompt this reminder to all Americans in Syria to exercise the highest levels of caution and to practice defensive driving techniques when driving throughout Syria.

American citizens should take note that highways are often not well lit at night and that road conditions deteriorate during inclement weather. In addition, citizens should be aware that trucks and other cargo vehicles will frequently change lanes and will make sudden starts and stops without notice. The Embassy asks all American citizens who are driving in Syria to be sure to have an emergency roadside safety kit, which includes road flares, auto distress flag, safety triangle, fire extinguisher, safety vest, first aid kit, jumper cables, and a flashlight.

As the Department of State develops information on any potential threats to U.S. citizens overseas, it shares credible information through its consular information program documents, available on the Internet at http://travel.state.gov. In addition to information on the Internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. or outside the U.S. and Canada on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.

American citizens in Syria can also review the latest announcements from the Embassy by visiting the Embassy’s website located at <<http://usembassy.state.gov/damascus>>. For after-hours emergencies, please contact the Embassy at (963-11) 333-1342.