Violence in Baja California

The U.S. Consulate General in Tijuana advises U.S. citizens residing or traveling in the states of Baja California and Baja California Sur, Mexico, to be aware of a recent rise in violent attacks in the Tijuana area, most of which are thought to be related to narco-trafficking. Given the recent arrest of a major narco-trafficker in La Paz, Baja California Sur, it is likely that violent attacks related to narco-trafficking will continue and could increase. The U.S. Consulate General in Tijuana is not aware of any attempts to specifically target U.S. citizens with this violence. U.S. citizens are advised to exercise caution when travelling in and around the states, and to avoid large crowds and demonstrations.Actions to Take if Caught in the Middle of a Gunfight/GunfireThe U.S. Consulate General in Tijuana takes this opportunity to recommend to U.S. citizens the following courses of action if you find yourself in a situation in or near gunfire:- Always be aware of your surroundings.- ! ; Whenever possible, carry a cell-phone with up-to-date contact information for emergencies.- When gunfire/explosions are heard, immediately move to a safe area with good cover. For example, look for something substantial to hide behind, seek cover in a room made of solid construction (e.g., concrete, steel, etc.), stay away from doors and windows, and do not venture out to try and observe the conflict.- Immediately convey the sense of danger/threat to those around you.-Do not attempt to move to a vehicle if you are in a safe area. Remain there until local security tells you that it is safe to move.- Always carry information about your personal medical needs. For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, Travel Alerts or Warnings and Public Announcements can be found. Up to date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States, or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are availabl! e from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Mondaythrough Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). American citizens traveling or residing overseas are encouraged to register with the appropriate U.S. Embassy or Consulate on the State Department's travel registration website at https://travelregistration.state.gov. By registering, Americancitizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency.For any emergencies involving American citizens, please contact the American Citizens Services (ACS) Unit of the U.S. Consulate General Tijuana located at: Ave. Tapachula # 96; Colonia Hipodromo, 22420 Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico; telephone (664) 622-7400; after-hours emergency number 001 (619) 692-2154 ; fax (664) 686-1168; e-mail ACSTijuana@state.gov.

Information is available on the Consulate General's website at: http://tijuana.usconsulate.gov/U.S. citizens in Baja California Sur may also contact the Consular Agency, located in Cabo San Lucas:U.S. Consular Agency Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S.Blvd. Marina Local C-4, Plaza Nautica, Col. CentroCabo San Lucas, B.C.S., 23410 Telephone and Fax Number: (624) 143-3566E-mail: usconsulcabo@yahoo.com

In case of an after-hours emergency involving U.S. citizens, please contact the Duty Officer. From Mexico dial 001 (619) 692-2154, from the U.S., call (619) 692-2154. To contact U.S. Consulate General TijuanaCall (52) (664) 622-74-00 To contact the U.S. Consular Agency in Cabo San Lucas