Supplemental Info:
Message for U.S. Citizens:
2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games Security
Reminder and Closures (July 18, 2024)
By U.S. Mission to France
JULY 18, 2024
With only eight days until the start of the Olympic Games, final preparations are coming into place. In Paris, authorities will continue to establish strict perimeters around the Seine for the opening ceremony and at other sites, such as fan zones, for the Games. The impact on vehicle traffic – and, at some points, pedestrian traffic – will continue to grow. Some areas will see checkpoints staffed by French law enforcement to include searches of bags and other personal property.
The French Ministry of Interior continues to urge residents, employees, shopkeepers, visitors and hotel and restaurant guests in the restricted areas to visit pass-jeux.gouv.fr as soon as possible to review applicable rules and request a free QR code, which police may require along with identification, to access secure perimeters.
We encourage you to regularly review the Paris Prefecture’s plans and details and the interactive map, as well as the U.S. Embassy’s Special Events 2024 web page, which offer all of the information you need to prepare.
French authorities tested emergency and communications capabilities (sirens, texts and alerts to mobile phones, etc.) and may continue to do so. Residents and visitors are encouraged to take note of these tests and follow the recommendations to help them run smoothly and prepare in the event of a real emergency.
The French government continues to monitor and investigate potential threats to the Games, but we remind U.S. citizens that terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets and shopping malls, places of worship, and other public areas. The U.S. Embassy reminds you to maintain sound personal security and situational awareness, particularly at large gatherings, which present opportunity for criminal elements.
Visitors to congested and popular tourist areas should pay particular attention to their surroundings. Incidents of petty crime, such as pickpocketing and phone snatching, are often directed at tourists.
General, but effective, security tips to keep in mind:
Remain attentive to your surroundings and report suspicious activities or items to the authorities immediately. Trust your instincts and avoid situations or areas that feel unsafe.
Ensure you have a means of communication, know emergency numbers, and establish meeting points with friends and family in the event of emergency. Share your itinerary and contact information with them.
Plan your travel routes in advance, and if attending Olympic events consider downloading the Paris 2024 Transit Public app, available in the Apple and Google Play stores. Familiarize yourself with emergency exits and evacuation procedures at venues and accommodations.
Cooperate with security personnel and follow their instructions at all times, particularly during security screenings or in the event of an emergency evacuation.
Maintain positive control of all your belongings. If carrying a bag or purse, ensure the pockets are secure and keep the bag in front of you. Never leave a bag or valuables unattended.
Be wary of diversions. Pickpockets frequently work in teams to distract the victim while his/her valuables are stolen.
Be discreet. Avoid displaying flashy clothing and jewelry or displaying cash in public.
Remember, no possessions are worth your life. Comply with the criminal’s demands and be a good witness.
In your vehicle:
Do not leave any valuables visible in your vehicle, even while driving.
Use a parking garage whenever possible. When a parking garage is not available, look for a space near a streetlight.
If you suspect someone is following you, do not drive home but go to a safe area such as a police station or hotel.
In traffic, always attempt to leave space to maneuver. Be prepared to take evasive action at any time.
In your home:
U.S. citizens may monitor English-language French media at the following links:
See the most recent Travel Advisory for France at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/France.html
Help us help you in an emergency: enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive these and other safety and security messages and provide us emergency contact information.
Emergency Contacts
Dial 112 to reach the Europe-wide emergency number. You can ask for an English-speaking operator, who will direct a response from the appropriate police, fire, or medical emergency responders (be aware, these offices may not speak English).
Limited Routine Services July 25-Aug 11 and Aug 28-Sept 8
Routine visa and passport/citizenship services offered by the U.S. Embassy in Paris and the consulates general in Marseille and Strasbourg will be extremely limited during the Games (from July 25 to August 11, 2024, and August 28 to September 8, 2024). Emergency passport services will be available in Paris, Marseille, and Strasbourg during the Olympic and Paralympic Games and in Lyon July 23 – August 8, 2024.
For Emergency Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Paris, France
+33 (1) 43 12 22 22
https://fr.usembassy.gov/navigator/
U.S. Consulate General Marseille, France
+33 (1) 43 12 22 22
https://fr.usembassy.gov/navigator-marseille/
U.S. Consulate General Strasbourg, France
+33 (1) 43 12 22 22
USAStrasbourg@state.gov
U.S. Consulate Lyon (July 23-August 8, 2024, only)
+33 (1) 43 12 48 60
USACitizenLyon@state.gov
State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
France Country Specific Information
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates
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View the Original:
https://fr.usembassy.gov/message-for-u-s-citizens-2024-olympic-and-paralympic-games-security-reminder-and-closures-july-18-2024/
