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Listen up, spring breakers.
FBI Los Angeles has released a stark warning to people traveling for spring break, telling sunseekers to “maintain vigilance.”
The advisory comes after a University of Pittsburgh student disappeared in the Dominican Republic earlier this month.
“Whether it’s families looking to escape the final throes of winter or a college student seeking a brief respite from the rigors of academic life, know that the risks are there,” Akil Davis, the FBI assistant director in charge, said in a statement.
“Maintain vigilance throughout your travels and be prepared to contact the nearest US Embassy or Consulate should the need arise.”
The agency listed an array of tips for travelers to keep in mind during spring break this year, urging revelers to check any travel advisories for their destination.
“The travel advisory system was designed to give US citizens timely, clear, and reliable information regarding security threats overseas,” the FBI wrote.
According to Newsweek, spring breakers tend to flock to Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, the Bahamas and Spain for their week-long vacation, some of which have been flagged with warnings from the State Department.
The US Department of State has issued Level 3 warnings — which means to “reconsider travel” — for multiple popular hot spots, including Jamaica, and Level 2 advisories — meaning “exercise increased caution” — for places like Turks and Caicos, Spain, Belize and the Bahamas.
To stay safe, the FBI told travelers to create a point of contact for the group in case of emergencies and avoid going anywhere alone, particularly at night. The agency cautioned tourists to only use “authorized” taxis and shuttles, as “passengers have been robbed or kidnapped” when riding unauthorized vehicles.
They also told vacationers to avoid illegal behavior and to exercise caution when meeting new people.
“Take mental notes of anyone following you and promptly report it to the appropriate security officials,” the FBI wrote.
“Be conscious of your surroundings and avoid areas you believe may put your personal safety at risk.”
University of Pittsburgh coed Sudiksha Konanki disappeared on March 6 while the two went for an early morning swim in rough waters at the RIU Hotel & Resort in Punta Cana, the Dominican Republic.
