Former Homeland Security Sec’y Chertoff: Tourists should identify exit strategy, just in case

Travel advice from former homeland security chief

WASHINGTON — Former Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff says Americans planning trips to Europe need to pay close attention to the security alert for Europe.

Chertoff, who headed the agency during the Bush administration, tells ABC’s “Good Morning America” that the State Department’s alert means tourists should take commonsense precautions, such as knowing where they are and identifying an exit strategy if necessary.

Chertoff was interviewed in the wake of the Obama administration’s decision to release a travel alert Sunday in response to reports of a possible terrorist threat against Britain, France and Germany. He advises travelers to consider “where would you take shelter if something happened.” And Chertoff also says: “Don’t walk around with the American flag on your back.”