AT tips keep travelers safe Published April 11, 2012 By 2nd Lt. Stephani Schafer 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- The 52nd Fighter Wing Anti-Terrorism Office has spent the past four months setting up a Sharepoint website to help keep Sabers safe during their travels to local communities and surrounding countries. Master Sgt. Michael Groder, 52nd FW anti-terrorism officer, said his office pulled information already available online and put it into one location to make it easier for people to find travel tips, warnings, and other information. "The most important site to be aware of is the Department of State travel site," Groder said. "People stationed here should register, get a pin, and add travel plans [to the site] so embassies can look to see when you'll be in their country. For example, if a natural disaster or terrorist attack happens they can take steps to find you and keep you safe." Visitors to the DOS website can find country-specific travel information such as embassy and consulate locations, whether a visa is needed, and crime and security information. The site also provides travel alerts and warnings. This information can help people determine whether they truly need or want to visit a country. For example, Italy and Greece pose fairly high risks, but are not considered off limits by the DOS. Also, a city could be restricted for American travelers, but that does not necessarily mean the entire country is off limits, Groder explained. In addition to linking to the DOS and other websites, the ATO Sharepoint site offers information about programs such as Eagle Eyes, a program that helps teach people how to spot potentially dubious behavior and what to do when they think they have observed suspicious activity. On the site, service members and DOD employees can also find specific leave requirements for travel within the African continent mandated by the U.S. Africa Command commander. "[The ATO site] is a great tool to thumb through. It's a one stop shop for any type of travel you're going to do anywhere in the world," Groder said. People should remember a few basic tips to stay safe no matter where they're traveling: - Register with the DOS website to ensure U.S. embassies and consulates know you're in their countries. - Use reputable airline, train, or registered taxi companies for transportation. - Find a hotel in a good area and make sure a friend or family member has your travel information. - Avoid large crowds, demonstrations, and protests. - Research the country or countries you're visiting before traveling and make sure you pay attention to what's going on around you when you get there. The ATO website provides this information to help ensure service members, supervisors, and coworkers strengthen and sustain a culture of responsibility at all times. For more information, visit https://ice.usafe.af.mil/sites/52FW/at/default.aspx, or call your unit's anti-terrorism office.