Canada has changed the risk level of anyone travelling to Italy any time soon.
The “risk level,” a level that the Canadian government assigns to all countries based on how safe it is to travel there, was upgraded from “take normal security precautions” to “exercise a high degree of caution” on Tuesday (June 4) due to the threat of terrorism, the government said on its website.
France, Germany and Spain are under the same risk level as Italy.
The change in risk level now means “there are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities,” the government said on its website.
This elevated risk level comes as there is a threat of terrorism in Europe, the Canadian government said.
“Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities and further attacks elsewhere in Europe are likely. Attacks in Italy cannot be ruled out,” the warning reads.
Targets could include government buildings, schools, places of worship, airports and other transportation hubs and networks and public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners, the government said.
“Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending sporting events and during religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks,” the Canadian government states.