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International SOS and Control Risks activate crisis team in wake of escalating security situation in Bahrain

International SOS, the world's leading international healthcare, medical and security assistance, and concierge services company and Control Risks, the world’s leading global risk consultancy firm are providing advice and emergency assistance to clients who have employees, students or other individuals in Bahrain.

Following a violent security crackdown on anti-government protesters in the Bahrain on March 16, a crisis management team was established at International SOS’ London alarm centre, supported by teams in Dubai, Philadelphia and Paris.

An incident management team comprising security, medical, aviation and logistics experts from International SOS and Control Risks has been deployed in Manama. The team is monitoring and assessing the situation, aligning support resources and providing assistance to members.

A special advisory was sent earlier today currently advising clients to stand-by. However, the situation remains volatile and members are advised to closely follow the frequent updates on the Travel Security Online section of the International SOS members’ website.

International SOS encourages its clients to call one of its 28 alarm centres worldwide for help in evacuating travellers and expatriates from Bahrain.

International SOS and Control Risks are closely monitoring the developing situation in Bahrain. Our current advice includes:

• Defer all but essential travel to Bahrain, including Manama, until the situation stabilises; non-essential staff may wish to leave the country by commercial means.
• Observe curfew hours and comply with directions given by the security forces, whose sensitivities may be heightened at this time. Carry photographic identification on your person at all times to ease passage through checkpoints.
• In Manama, there is a potential for a further deterioration in the security environment; protest activity has the potential to cause severe travel disruption. In the event of deterioration, foreign travellers and expatriates are unlikely to be at direct risk, but in-country personnel should minimise movement and be prepared to be flexible in their travel arrangements.
• Personnel considering the option of road travel are advised to implement strict journey management procedures. If movement is to be undertaken, do so outside curfew hours in Manama, or between first light and 12.00 outside the capital, when it is likely to be less restricted by traffic congestion or unrest.
• Avoid all protests and rallies because of a credible risk of security incidents. Liaise closely with local hosts and hotel staff on the timings and locations of planned protest activity and, where possible, make necessary changes to itineraries to minimise inconvenience.
• Staff in the capital should expect, but not be unduly alarmed by, a heavy presence of security forces in public areas. In the event of encountering protesters or a large group of security personnel, vacate the area immediately – do not stop to watch or photograph them. In the event of unrest or clashes with the security forces, foreigners are unlikely to be targeted, but may face incidental risks.
• Travellers in the capital should use a taxi or private vehicle and driver at this time of heightened tensions; local drivers are best placed to avoid demonstrations and in the event of encountering one, they are best placed to find a safe alternative route. Do not self-drive unless very familiar with the city. Avoid travel on foot in the vicinity of affected areas and sensitive locations.
  

Up-to-date information, advice, and analysis are available on the Travel Security Online section that can be accessed from the Members’ login area on  http://www.internationalsos.com/.