March 31, 2011

The anniversary of the series of demonstrations across Kyrgyzstan that ultimately led to the ouster of its president in April 2010 is approaching, and the United States Embassy would like to take this opportunity to remind U.S. citizens of the importance of emergency preparedness.  

As seen in the protests of April 2010, the security environment can change unexpectedly and with little warning.  You should especially be aware of your surroundings while visiting local markets, bazaars, and other areas of town where large groups of people congregate, and be vigilant when it comes to securing your vehicles, property, and residence.  Central areas of Bishkek are the usual places of protest in the city and particular vigilance should be exercised in those areas.  

The Embassy recommends that U.S. citizens remain close to their usual place of residence during the days immediately before and after the anniversary. 

Further suggestions: 

• Make sure you have a valid Kazakh visa in your passport. 
• Keep your important personal documents and passports in a location where you can easily reach them. 
• Keep the gas tank of your vehicle full. 
• Keep your cell phone charged and on at all times, with contact numbers readily accessible. 
• Stock your residence with 2-3 days' supply of food and water. 
• Have needed supplies for children and infants, i.e. diapers and formula. 

As always, the Embassy will notify U.S. citizens of any available information regarding security.  We will use the following means to contact U.S. citizens: 

• E-mail messages to those U.S. citizens who have registered with us;
• Updates on our Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/usembassy.bishkek) and Twitter (http://twitter.com/usembassykg) accounts;
• Postings on our web page. 

U.S. citizens traveling abroad should regularly monitor the U.S. Embassy's website and the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs website, where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Country Specific Information for Kyrgyzstan can be found.  The U.S. Embassy also encourages U.S. citizens to review "A Safe Trip Abroad,", which includes valuable security information for those both living and traveling abroad.  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 United States and Canada or, outside the United States and Canada, on a regular toll-line at 1-202-501-4444. 

The U.S. Embassy in Bishkek is located at 171 Prospect Mira, 720016 Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. The phone number is 996-312-551-241 and may be used after hours. Fax: 996-312-551-264, and website: http://bishkek.usembassy.gov.