LSS Consulting | About Our Investigations and Private Security Team

NED TIMMONS

PRESIDENT, founded LSS Consulting in 1991 after 23 years as a sworn law enforcement agent.

Timmons served in the U.S. Army, 2d Infantry Division, assigned to The Criminal Investigations Detachment in Korea. After completion of his military service, he joined Oak Park, Michigan Department of Public Safety, performing police, fire and rescue duties.

In addition to Public Safety assignments, Timmons served 9 years on The South Oakland County, Michigan SWAT Team and several terms as an officer in The Police Officers Association.

In 1981, Timmons received an appointment to The FBI and after completing the FBI Academy, was assigned to Detroit Division. He was assigned to bank robbery, fugitive, organized crime and drug squads while in Detroit. Timmons served 9 years on the FBI SWAT Team and acted as liaison agent to The Ontario Provincial Police. In Detroit, Timmons did extensive undercover work with motorcycle gang and drug related investigations both nationally and internationally.

He holds a Bachelors Degree from Hillsdale College, a Masters Degree from Michigan State University, is certified in Homeland Security and is a Certified Fraud Examiner.

Christopher Hagon

CORPORATE SECURITY EXPERT and DIRECTOR OF EUROPEAN OPERATIONS, Hagon was a member of London's Metropolitan Police Force, for 21 years and has been an L.S.S. Associate since 1992.

Hagon served in Scotland Yard’s Royalty and Diplomatic Protection Department for 11 years and nine of those he was assigned to head the personal protection for Prince Philip. Hagon also performed protection duty for other members of the Royal Family and later was appointed as the personal protection officer to Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. In 1984, Hagon became responsible for all Royal Family close personal protection operations until he retired at the rank of Superintendent.

Hagon then joined a prestigious international security consulting firm providing services to more than half of the Fortune 500 companies. As Director of Executive Protection, Hagon dealt with terrorist-related incidents – bombings and assassination threats encountered by major U.S. defense contractors and pharmaceutical companies. He also supervised product-contamination and kidnap-ransom cases. In 1988, Hagon joined Miami-based Ryder Systems, Inc., the world's largest full-service lease and transportation company, as Director of Corporate Security and was responsible for many innovative and proactive programs designed to protect Ryder's 46,000 personnel and assets.

Greg Stejskal

SENIOR CONSULTANT AND LEGAL ADVISOR

Greg attended The University of Nebraska and graduated with a major in business in 1974.
While at Nebraska he played both Freshman and Varsity Football.

In 1974 Greg graduated from University of Nebraska Law School and was accepted into The Federal Bureau of Investigation the same year.

During his career he served on squads investigating bank robbery, organized crime, fraud, violent crimes, kidnapping, murder and terrorism.

From 1995 to 2006, Greg served as Senior Resident Agent In Charge of The FBI's Ann Arbor
, Mi. Resident Agency.

He also served on The FBI SWAT Team from 1977 to 1998 and as Senior SWAT Team Leader from 1987 to 1998.

Barron Strohmeyer

SENIOR CONSULTANT/DIRECTOR OF INVESTIGATIONS:

After high school, Barron served in The U.S. Air Force with tours in Panama, South America and The Republic of Viet Nam.

Upon completion of his military service he attended Wayne State University and graduated in 1973 with a Bachelors of Science Degree in Police Administration.

Strohmeyer was hired by Oak Park Public Safety, Oak Park, Mi. in 1973 and served performing police, fire and rescue duties. He served 6 years as a Detective and 3 years as administrative Assistant to The Director.

Strohmeyer was promoted to Sergeant in 1990 and served as a patrol Division Commander and Detective Sergeant in charge of daily Investigations Division Operations.

In 1991 he attended and graduated from Northwestern University School of Staff and Command and continued to serve at Oak Park until his retirement in 1998.

Strohmeyer was hired by LSS in 1998 and has vast experience in investigations, security consulting, work place violence and site security.

Jeffrey Werner

SENIOR CONSULTANT, Werner recently completed an impressive 41 year law enforcement career as Chief of Police with the Bloomfield Township, Michigan Police Department and served as a Senior Consultant for L.S.S. Consulting

During his career, he gained valuable expertise in criminal investigations, special event management, executive protection, crisis management, workplace violence and public relations.

Werner, Serves on the Executive Committee with the International Association of Chiefs of Police, and President board member positions with the Michigan Association, Southeastern Michigan and Oakland County Association Chiefs of Police.

Two Michigan Governor’s have appointed Werner as a Commission Member with the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards where he obtained the position of Vice-Chair.

Werner holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Madonna College in Criminal Justice and Sociology and a Masters degree in Public administration.

Charles Rhodes

SENIOR CONSULTANT

Charles is a graduate of Michigan State University, in Police Administration and joined Southfield , Michigan Police Department in 1970.
He served in patrol division, detective division, was promoted to Detective Sergeant and eventually to Lieutenant.

As a Southfield Police Lieutenant he coordinated patrol operations and commanded a work force of over 100 officers and civilians.

Rhodes retired in 1997 and began work with Southfield Public Schools as a Security Specialists.

With the school system he supervised students in and around school campuses, investigated matters involving disciplinary violations, provided security at school events and acted a liaison to Southfield Police Department.

In 2010 Rhodes joined LSS providing an extensive background law enforcement and private security

William Dwyer

SENIOR CONSULTANT, Specializing in law enforcement matters and police management. Dwyer completed 23 years with the Detroit Police Department where he held the position of Commander of the Chief’s Staff.
Dwyer also served 7 years as head of the Detroit Police Narcotics Division where he accounted for thousands of arrest and millions of dollars in forfeited drug monies.

In 1985 Dwyer was hired as Chief of the Farmington Hills, Michigan Police Department and has served in that position for the last 21 years.

He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Mercy College and a Masters degree from Wayne State University and has graduated from the 97th session of the FBI National Academy.

Joe George

SENIOR SECURITY CONSULTANT

George holds a Bachelors Degree from Mercy College of Detroit, MI and a Masters in Criminal Justice from The University of Detroit.

He began his law enforcement career in 1968 with Southfield, Michigan Police Department then served as Chief of The Village of Franklin from 1979 to 1980.

In 1981 Joe returned to Southfield PD, working in Vice and Undercover Operations. He was promoted to Sergeant in 1989 and retired as a Lieutenant , Commander of The Detective Bureau, in 1994.

In 1996 Joe was appointed Chief of Police of Wolverine Lake, Michigan and served in that capacity until October 2010.

Tim Bradley

SENIOR INTERNATIONAL CONSULTANT

Tim J. Bradley, CPP, CFE, has over 25 years of experience as a federal law enforcement officer, corporate security and security consultant. His area of specialty is the development and implementation of security programs to help organizations minimize the potential impact of global threats against their assets, personnel and business operations. Mr. Bradley’s previous assignments have included the development of corporate travel security programs for large multi-national manufacturing companies with multiple locations worldwide; conducting risk assessments at domestic and overseas facilities; development of travel security, political evacuation and executive protection programs; developing and implementing security and contingency plans for overseas and domestic corporate meetings and events; planning and successful resolution for labor disruptions and plant closures around the world; and conducting investigations into workplace violence threats and employee fraud.

Prior to this, Mr. Bradley served as a Special Agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, where he served in the Special Events Management Unit coordinating security measures and crisis response plans for major special events in the United States and abroad. He is also an experienced investigator, having personally directed several successful investigations of internationally-based organized criminal groups and violent street gangs.

Mr. Bradley is an Adjunct Professor at several universities and colleges teaching graduate and undergraduate courses in a wide variety of security management disciplines.

Mr. Bradley graduated from the University of Alabama with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting. He holds a Master of Arts degree from Webster University with a major in Business and Organizational Security Management. He is Board Certified in Security Management through ASIS International as a Certified Protection Professional, and he is also a Certified Fraud Examiner.

Steven Schneider

WMD / TERRORISM AWARENESS CONSULTANT
During his 15 years in Law Enforcement, Steve Schneider has attended and completed a multitude of emergency services related and train-the-trainer courses. He has a wide array of experience in several areas including Weapons of Mass Destruction, Community Anti-Terrorism Training, Investigations, Corrections Management, Inmate Custody and Care, Road Patrol and General Administration. This experience has been gained through his degree programs, employment with two large investigative companies and one of the largest Sheriff Office’s in the United States. He is a member of the Oakland County Incident Management Team and has completed Type IV Incident Management Team Training as well as a variety of Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosive instructor courses relating to Terrorists use of Weapons of Mass Destruction.

Mr. Schneider is an Adjunct Professor at several private and public universities and colleges teaching graduate and undergraduate courses in a wide variety of criminal justice and security management disciplines.

Mr. Schneider graduated from the Western Michigan University with a Bachelor of Business Degree carrying a double major in Management and Asian Studies. He holds a Master of Science in Administration degree from Central Michigan University with a concentration in Public Administration. In addition, he is Board Certified in Homeland Security (CHS III) and well as Board Certified in Security Management as a Certified Protection Professional (CPP).

Management Staff

MARY TIMMONS, (Vice President), has 18 years experience in private investigations.
As the office manager she manages several staff members involved with background investigations and pre-employment screening. She over-sees payroll and account receivables and is responsible for client development and relations.

JOHN HOOD, (Director of Operations) holds a Bachelors Degree from Central Michigan University. He has 13 years experience in event security and planning. He is responsible for daily scheduling and logistics. He has also directed several successful under cover operations.

WALTER LAMB, (Director of Defensive Tactics Training, Supervisor of Executive Protection). Holds a Bachelors Degree from Madonna University and is a fourth degree black belt in Judo and Jujitsu. Lamb is a two-time Mid-West Collegiate Champion and two-time National Silver Medalist in Judo. He has been with L.S.S. since 1991.

Panama: The State Department alerts U.S. citizens of the risks of travel along the Pan-American Highway in western Panama at this time. This Travel Alert expires on February 20, 2012. Disputes over mining rights in western Panama have led to violent confrontations between indigenous groups and Panamanian security forces. These confrontations have resulted in continued disruptions and demonstrations along the Pan-American Highway near the San Felix area in Chiriqui (Ngobe Bugle region) and elsewhere in Panama. There are reports of violent confrontations between the Panamanian police and protestors in the San Juan, San Felix, Horconcitos, and Vigui areas. There are further reports of demonstrations in the areas of David and Changuinola and of possible demonstrations in the Panama City area beginning on Monday, February 6, 2012.The U.S. Embassy urges American citizens to avoid travel along the Pan-American Highway in western Panama at this time. While the Pan-American Highway is reported to be open, protesters continue in their attempts to block it with rocks, trees, and burning tires at various points between Chiriqui and San Felix. Protesters have been reportedly throwing rocks at passing vehicles. Panamanian Security Services continue to use tear gas and other riot control measures. American citizens are urged to avoid areas of demonstrations, to defer traveling to and within areas known to have current protest activity, and to exercise caution in any area of confrontation between police and protestors.Other protests on this or other issues may occur with little or no warning. The Embassy continues to caution its employees and all U.S. citizens to exercise heightened security awareness and avoid crowds and any areas where there are demonstrations or where confrontations could occur.For updated information on the security situation in Panama, please contact the American Citizen Services Unit of the U.S. Embassy at (011)-507-207-7030. The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy is located in Clayton, Building 783, in the Clayton section of Panama. The Embassy web site is http://panama.usembassy.gov/ and e-mails should be addressed to Panama-ACS@state.gov. The after-hours and emergency phone numbers are (011)-507-207-7000 or (011)-507- 207-7200.For up-to-date information on security, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov. Further information on safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).U.S. citizens who travel to or reside in Panama are encouraged to enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). By enrolling, you make it easier for the U.S. Embassy to contact you in case of an emergency. Bahrain Travel Alert: The U.S. Department of State alerts U.S. citizens to the potential for unrest in Bahrain. This Travel Alert supersedes the Travel Alert dated November 18, 2011, and expires on April 19, 2012. It updates information about spontaneous and sometimes violent demonstrations. All travelers to Bahrain face increased scrutiny from Bahraini authorities, and the Government of Bahrain has refused to allow some U.S. citizens permission to enter Bahrain. The airport remains open and operational. Spontaneous and sometimes violent anti-government demonstrations occur in some neighborhoods, particularly at night and on weekends. These demonstrations have included blockades of major highways, trash can fires, and establishment of unofficial checkpoints. Participants have thrown rocks and Molotov cocktails and used various other homemade weapons. The Ministry of Interior maintains official checkpoints in some areas and routinely uses tear gas, stun grenades, and other crowd control measures against demonstrators. The violent clashes between security forces and demonstrators can make travel in and around Bahrain dangerous without advance warning. The U.S. Embassy restricts its employees from traveling to specific areas and advises all U.S. citizens to do the same. The recent increase in violent demonstrations along the Budaiya Highway corridor has led to traffic disruptions, effectively restricting travel for those living in the area. The resulting inability to leave one's home for an extended period poses significant safety and security concerns. As a result, Embassy employees and their dependents are being relocated to different neighborhoods. We continue to urge U.S. citizens to follow the latest security guidance and to avoid demonstrations. Please check our Demonstration Notices where the latest information and security guidance along with the latest map outlining the recommended areas of travel can be found. There are no indications that Westerners or U.S. citizens are being targeted directly, but recent isolated examples of anti-U.S. sentiment have been seen on the streets and U.S. flags have occasionally been burned during demonstrations. U.S. citizens are urged to remain alert to local security developments and to be vigilant regarding their personal security by knowing the locations of police and fire stations, hospitals, and the U.S. Embassy. The Department of State strongly urges U.S. citizens to avoid all demonstrations, as even peaceful ones can quickly become unruly, and a foreigner could become a target of harassment or worse. If you are in immediate danger, call the police at 999. The U.S. Embassy in Manama can be reached at (973) 1724-2700; the after-hours emergency number is (973) 1724-2957; the fax number is (973) 1725-6242. The U.S. Embassy in Manama is located at Building No. 979, Road 3119, Block 331 Zinj District, Manama. The U.S. Embassy is open for all routine American Citizens Services (such as passports, Consular Reports of Birth Abroad, and notarials) by appointment via our website, bahrain.usembassy.gov. U.S. citizens with routine inquiries can write to manamaconsular@state.gov. Emergency passport services can be arranged via email or by calling the Embassy directly. U.S. citizens in Bahrain are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). Those enrolled in STEP receive Messages and Emergency Messages for U.S. citizens as well as Demonstration Notices. These messages and notices are placed on our website at the same time that they are sent via email to STEP enrollees. U.S. citizens without internet access may enroll in person at the U.S. Embassy. By enrolling, U.S. citizens make it easier for the Embassy to contact them in case of emergency. Updated information on travel and security in Bahrain may be obtained from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). For further information, please consult the Country Specific Information for Bahrain, as well as the Worldwide Caution. You can also stay up to date by bookmarking our Bureau of Consular Affairs website, which also contains current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts. Follow us on Twitter and the Bureau of Consular Affairs page on Facebook, and download our free Smart Traveler iPhone App to have travel information at your fingertips. Tunisia Travel Alert: The Department of State alerts U.S. citizens to the potential for unrest in Tunisia. The security situation in most tourist and business centers remains calm. However, spontaneous and unpredictable events, such as work stoppages and demonstrations still occur, a state of emergency remains in force, and curfews can be re-established on short notice. The U.S. Department of State continues to advise U.S. citizens currently in Tunisia to remain alert to local security developments and to be vigilant regarding their personal security. Travelers contemplating trips to the interior of the country should assess local conditions and routes when making travel plans, as conditions can quickly change. This Travel Alert supersedes the Travel Alert for Tunisia dated October 5, 2011, to update information on the security situation and travel within Tunisia, and expires on April 12, 2012. Tunisia has experienced unprecedented social and political change following the ouster of former President Ben Ali on January 14, 2011. General elections, which were peaceful and transparent, took place on October 23, 2011 and a new government assumed office on December 23. However, political protests, work stoppages, roadblocks and other public disturbances still occur. Demonstrations have degenerated on several occasions into violent clashes between police and protesters, resulting in deaths, injuries, and extensive property damage. While demonstrations have not been directed toward foreigners, U.S. citizens are urged to remain alert to local security developments and to be vigilant regarding their personal security. The U.S. Department of State strongly urges U.S. citizens to avoid all demonstrations, as even peaceful ones can quickly become unruly, and a foreigner could become a target of harassment or worse.Tunisian security forces have noted the increased availability of small arms and other weapons in Tunisia throughout 2011. There have been occasional clashes between armed groups, resulting in casualties and the declaration of temporary curfews. In a September 21 incident, Tunisian military aircraft exchanged fire with a convoy of unidentified armed vehicles crossing the desert south of Douz, in the Governorate of Kebili. The incident underscored the need for U.S. citizens to carefully consider all travel in the interior and to avoid travel in remote regions in the south of Tunisia. Following a November 30 shooting incident at the Ras Jedir border crossing with Libya, the Tunisian government temporarily closed the border; it reopened December 22. Nevertheless, because of the security situation in Libya, the Ras Jedir and Dehiba border crossings may be closed from time to time. Travelers should consult with local authorities before travelling to the border between Libya and Tunisia and read the Travel Warning for Libya.Government security forces, including the police, army, and National Guard, are visibly present throughout Tunisia. Travelers should heed directions given by uniformed security officials, and should always carry a copy of their passport as proof of nationality and identity. Security personnel, including plainclothes officials, may at times place foreign visitors under surveillance. It is against Tunisian law to photograph government offices and other sensitive facilities. Suspicious incidents or problems should be reported immediately to Tunisian authorities and to the U.S. Embassy.The Embassy is located in the Les Berges du Lac suburb of Tunis. The Embassy telephone number is 216 71 107 000 and the Embassy fax number is 216 71 963 263. The Consular section can also be contacted by email at ConsularTunis@state.gov.U.S. citizens in Tunisia are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). U.S. citizens without internet access may enroll directly at the U.S. Embassy. By enrolling, U.S. citizens make it easier for the Embassy to contact them in case of emergency.Updated information on travel and security in Tunisia may be obtained from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or via regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. Stay up to date by bookmarking our Bureau of Consular Affairs website, found at travel.state.gov, which contains the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts as well as the Worldwide Caution. Follow us on Twitter and the Bureau of Consular Affairs page on Facebook. You can also download our free Smart Traveler iPhone App to have travel information at your fingertips. South Pacific Cyclone Season: The Department of State alerts U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to the South Pacific region about the ongoing threat of tropical cyclones affecting the area. While tropical cyclones in the South Pacific may occur throughout the year, the South Pacific Tropical Cyclone Season began on November 1 and ends April 30. U.S. citizens living in or traveling to the region should monitor local weather reports and take other appropriate action as needed. This Travel Alert replaces the South Pacific Cyclone Season Travel Alert issued on December 1, 2011 to incorporate technical edits and expires on April 30, 2012.Each tropical cyclone season, the South Pacific region experiences approximately nine tropical cyclones, about half of which reach Category 3 intensity, or above, and have the potential to cause severe destruction. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration recommends that people living or traveling in regions prone to tropical storms and tropical cyclones be prepared; for further information about tropical cyclone preparedness, please visit NOAA's Tropical Cyclones Preparedness Guide at: http://www.nws.noaa.gov/os/hurricane/resources/TropicalCyclones11.pdf.Severe tropical cyclones have caused death, injury, and extensive property damage. Many U.S. citizens traveling in this region during tropical cyclone season were forced to delay their return to the United States or other travel because of infrastructure damage to airports and limited flight availability. Roads were washed out or blocked by debris, impeding access to airports and land routes out of affected areas. In the event of a tropical cyclone, you may not be able to depart an affected area for 24 to 48 hours or more, particularly if you are residing in or visiting a South Pacific Island country where air service is limited.You also may encounter uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous conditions after storms pass. In many places, tropical cyclones are often accompanied by damaging high tides and flooding. If you are living or staying close to the ocean or other bodies of water, you may be at higher risk. Landslides and mudslides also are a serious concern during periods of heavy rain. Looting and sporadic violence sometimes occur after natural disasters. Be sure to check with local authorities for safety and security updates. Weather conditions or damage to infrastructure may delay or prevent needed assistance from U.S. embassy and host country security personnel.If the damage in the aftermath of a storm requires evacuation, the Department of State and our embassies and consulates overseas work to identify and recommend the safest and most efficient means of travel away from the disaster. Commercial airlines are the best, and often least expensive, source of transportation in an evacuation. The Department arranges other means of transport, including U.S. military support, only as a last resort when commercial transportation is completely unavailable. The Department of State does not provide free transportation, but it has the authority to provide you a loan to return to the United States if you are in financial need. You should always obtain travel insurance to cover unexpected expenses during an emergency, as well as medical insurance with provision for emergency medical evacuations to the United States. Commercial medical evacuations can cost $100,000 or more, and may not be covered by your insurance.If you are living in or traveling to storm-prone regions overseas, you should prepare by organizing a kit containing a supply of bottled water, non-perishable food items, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio and vital documents, including your passport, and/or birth certificate and other photo identification, in a waterproof container. Emergency shelters often have access only to basic resources and limited medical and food supplies.Be sure to monitor local media to stay aware of weather developments. For further information on tropical cyclone warnings in the South Pacific region, please consult the Joint Typhoon Warning Center in Honolulu at http://www.usno.navy.mil/JTWC and the National Weather Service's Central Pacific Hurricane Center, http://www.prh.noaa.gov/hnl/cphc, Fiji's regional meteorological center responsible for tropical cyclone warnings in the South Pacific region at http://www.met.gov.fj/, or the Government of Australia's Bureau of Meteorology at http://www.bom.gov.au/cyclone.Minor tropical storms can develop into tropical cyclones very quickly, limiting the time available for you to evacuate safely. Tell family and friends in the United States of your whereabouts, and keep in close contact with your tour operator, hotel staff, and local officials for evacuation instructions in the event of a weather emergency. Please protect your travel and identity documents against loss or damage, as the need to replace lost documentation could delay or otherwise complicate your return to the United States.We encourage all U.S. citizens abroad to enroll with the Department of State's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at travel.state.gov/step or with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. By enrolling, you can receive the embassy's or consulate's most recent safety and security updates during your trip. Enrolling also ensures that we can reach you, or your designated emergency points of contact, during an emergency. Stay up to date by bookmarking our Bureau of Consular Affairs website, which contains the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts, as well as the Worldwide Caution. Follow us on Twitter and the Bureau of Consular Affairs page on Facebook as well. While consular officers will do their utmost to assist you in a crisis, please be aware that local authorities have primary responsibility for the welfare of people living or traveling in their jurisdictions.You will find additional information on cyclones and storm preparedness on the Bureau of Consular Affairs' Hurricane Season – Know Before You Go website. You can receive updated information on travel in cyclone-prone regions from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 within the United States and Canada, or from other areas, 1-202-501-4444. If you travel in the region, please check the website of the U.S. embassy or consulate that has consular responsibilities for the territory you will be visiting. For further information, please consult the Country Specific Information website for the appropriate country or territory. Senegal Travel Alert: The Department of State alerts U.S. citizens to the potential for civil unrest and disturbances in Senegal prior to and directly following the upcoming Presidential elections scheduled for February 26, 2012. Political demonstrations in June of 2011 were particularly violent, and as certain dates in the election cycle (listed below) come to pass, the potential for similar confrontations exists. Please note the U.S. Embassy in Dakar has requested that all non-essential travel to Senegal by U.S. officials be deferred from January 16 through March 2, 2012. This Travel Alert expires March 2, 2012.U.S. citizens should be aware of certain dates in the election cycle as these may be focal points for demonstrations. From December 26 through January 26, candidates may file their papers to run in the election. January 27 is the date by which Senegal's Constitutional Council must rule on a candidates' eligibility and publish a final candidates list. February 6 is the official start of the campaign period, and February 26 is the scheduled date for the first round of voting. If a candidate does not win more than 50 percent of the vote in the first round, a second round of voting will occur on March 18. U.S. citizens planning to travel to Senegal during and immediately following the elections should monitor local news, assess local conditions and travel routes, and consult Embassy Dakar's website for Emergency Messages to U.S. Citizens.For U.S. citizens residing in Senegal, the U.S. Embassy recommends that you take this opportunity to ensure that passports for all family members are up to date. U.S. citizens are encouraged to carry a photocopy of their passports with them at all times so that, if questioned by local officials, proof of identity and citizenship is readily available. If detained or arrested, U.S. citizens should ask to be allowed to contact the U.S. Embassy. The U.S. Department of State strongly urges U.S. citizens to avoid demonstrations, political rallies, and spontaneous gatherings in Senegal. While most demonstrations in Senegal are non-violent, the potential for violence exists, particularly from now until the first round of the scheduled Presidential elections. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence without much advance warning. U.S. citizens should stay current with media coverage of local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times.You can stay in touch and receive Embassy updates by checking the U.S. Embassy Dakar website. Current information on safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States or a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444 for callers from other countries. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). You can also stay up to date by bookmarking our Bureau of Consular Affairs website, which contains the current Worldwide Caution. Follow us on Twitter and the Bureau of Consular Affairs page on Facebook, and download our free Smart Traveler i-Phone App to have travel information at your fingertips.If you are going to live in or travel to Senegal, please take the time to tell us about your trip by enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). If you enroll, we can keep you up to date with important safety and security announcements. It will also help your friends and family get in touch with you in an emergency. You should remember to keep all of your information in STEP up to date. It is important during enrollment or updating of information to include your current phone number and current email address where you can be reached in case of an emergency.The U.S. Embassy in Dakar is located on at Avenue Jean XXIII, Dakar; the mailing address is B.P. 49, Dakar, Senegal. If you have questions or concerns about safety or related issues, you are encouraged to contact the consular section at the Embassy by sending an email message to consulardakar@state.gov. The Embassy telephone number is (221) 33-829-2100. For After Hours Emergency, please call Tel: (221) 33-829-2209 and ask to speak to the duty officer. Egypt Travel Alert: The U.S. Department of State alerts U.S. citizens traveling to or living in Egypt to the continuing possibility of sporadic unrest. A series of elections for the lower and upper houses of parliament is scheduled to take place from November 2011 through March 2012. Political rallies and demonstrations are likely to occur in the period leading up to and following the elections. In the past nine months, demonstrations have degenerated on occasion into violent clashes between police and protesters, in some instances resulting in deaths, injuries, and extensive property damage. U.S. citizens are urged to remain alert to local security developments and to be vigilant regarding their personal security. The security situation in most tourist centers, including Luxor, Aswan, and the Red Sea Resorts such as Sharm el Sheikh, continues to be calm. This Travel Alert supersedes the Travel Alert dated April 28, 2011 and updates information on the security situation and upcoming elections. This Travel Alert expires on April 1, 2012.The U.S. Department of State strongly urges U.S. citizens to avoid all demonstrations in Egypt, as even peaceful ones can quickly become violent and a foreigner could become a target of harassment or worse. Should security forces block off the area around the U.S. Embassy during demonstrations, U.S. citizens should not attempt to come to the U.S. Embassy during that time. U.S. citizens are urged to remain alert to local security developments and to carry identification and, if moving about alone, a cell phone or other means of communication that works in Egypt. The U.S. Embassy is open for all routine American Citizens’ Services by appointment. U.S. citizens needing emergency assistance do not need an appointment. Visit the Embassy website to check the latest changes to Embassy hours or services. U.S. citizens with routine phone inquiries may call the Embassy's American Citizens Services section at 2797-2301, Sunday to Thursday from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. For emergencies after business hours and on weekends and holidays, U.S. citizens can contact the Embassy Duty Officer via the Embassy switchboard on 2797-3300. The U.S. Embassy is closed on U.S. federal holidays. U.S. citizens in Egypt are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). By enrolling, U.S. citizens make it easier for the Embassy to contact them in case of emergency.For the latest security information, U.S. citizens traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department of State’s Internet website at travel.state.gov where the Worldwide Caution, Country Specific Information for Egypt, Travel Warnings, and Travel Alerts can be found. Follow us on Twitter and the Bureau of Consular Affairs page on Facebook as well. Download our free Smart Traveler iPhone App to have travel information at your fingertips.Up to date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States and Canada, or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).The U.S. Embassy in Egypt is located at 5 Tawfik Diab Street (formerly known as Latin America Street), Garden City, Cairo. For emergencies after business hours and on weekends and holidays, U.S. citizens can contact the Embassy Duty Officer via the Embassy switchboard on 2797-3300. Japan Travel Alert: This Travel Alert updates the Travel Alert for Japan dated July 19, 2011, to note modifications to U.S. government recommendations for U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in the area around the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant. This Travel Alert expires on April 13, 2012.Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power PlantAgencies of the U.S. government continue to review the conditions at and around the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Plant and the measures taken by the Government of Japan. Additional data are now available from Japanese authorities, allowing for a fuller assessment by U.S. government scientists. Areas We Recommend U.S. Citizens AvoidBased on current data from Japan, we recommend that U.S. citizens avoid all unnecessary travel to areas within 20 kilometers of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Plant. In addition, U.S. citizens should avoid all unnecessary travel to the area northwest of the plant that the Government of Japan has designated as the “Deliberate Evacuation Area.” This oblong area in a northwestern direction from the power plant covers Iitate-mura, the Yamagiya district of Kawamata-machi, Katsurao-mura, Namie-machi and parts of Minamisoma. U.S. citizens should also avoid all “Specific Spots Recommended for Evacuation” by the Government of Japan. U.S. citizens who are still within any of these areas should evacuate. Government of Japan maps and information on evacuation areas may be found at http://www.kantei.go.jp/foreign/incident/health_and_safety.html. Other Areas Within 80km of Fukushima Daiichi PlantTEMPORARY VISITORS: Government of Japan data measurements show varying levels of radiation in land areas outside of the area described above, but within 80 kilometers of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Plant. The U.S. government believes the health and safety risks to temporary visitors to these areas are low and exposure does not pose significant risks to U.S. citizens making visits of less than one year. We recommend U.S. citizens contemplating travel to these areas consult with Japanese authorities regarding local conditions at the proposed destination.LONG-TERM RESIDENTS: The risks may be higher for U.S. citizens who reside for more than one year within 80 kilometers of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Plant. Out of an abundance of caution, we recommend that U.S. citizens who choose to reside for more than one year within 80 kilometers of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Plant consult with local authorities to receive current guidance on expected levels of radiation and recommendations for reducing exposure to radiation. In addition, pregnant women, children, and the elderly should avoid residing within 30 km of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Plant.Additional information about radiation and its effects on human health may be found at the following websites:http://japan2.usembassy.gov/e/acs/tacs-health.htmlhttp://emergency.cdc.gov/radiation/japan2011.asphttp://epa.gov/radiation/understanding-radiation-overview.htmlhttp://www.kantei.go.jp/foreign/incident/health_and_safety.htmlThe U.S. government continues to advise that ships operating near the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant should follow the U.S. Coast Guard's recommendations. Information may be found at the U.S. Coast Guard's website: http://www.navcen.uscg.gov/Risk of AftershocksJapan is one of the most seismically active areas in the world. Aftershocks following an earthquake of this magnitude can be expected to continue for more than a year. Identifying potential hazards ahead of time and advance planning can reduce the dangers of serious injury or loss of life from an earthquake. See the Embassy Website for detailed information on earthquake safety: http://japan.usembassy.govAmerican Citizen ServicesU.S. citizens living or traveling in Japan are encouraged to enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive the latest travel updates and information and to obtain updated information on travel and security within Japan. U.S. citizens without internet access may enroll directly at the U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulates in Japan. By enrolling, U.S. citizens make it easier for the Embassy/Consulates to contact them in case of emergency.For the latest U.S. government information on the situation in Japan, please visit the Embassy website. Updated information on travel and security in Japan may also be obtained from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. For further information, please consult the Country Specific Information for Japan, as well as the Worldwide Caution.For any emergencies involving U.S. citizens, please contact the American Citizens Services (ACS) Unit of either the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo or one of the U.S. Consulates in Japan listed below:U.S. Embassy in TokyoAmerican Citizen Services1-10-5 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-8420Tel: 03-3224-5000After Hours: 03-3224-5000Fax: 03-3224-5856http://japan.usembassy.gov/The U.S. Embassy serves U.S. citizens in Tokyo, Chiba, Fukushima, Gunma, Ibaraki, Kanagawa, Nagano, Niigata, Saitama, Shizuoka, Tochigi, Yamagata and Yamanashi.Consulates:Osaka-Kobe: 11-5, Nishitenma 2-chome, Kita-ku, Osaka 530-8543; Tel: 06- 6315-5912, Fax: 06-6315-5914; serving Americans in Osaka, Tel: 06-6315-5912, Fax: 06- 6315-5914; serving U.S. citizens in Osaka, Aichi, Ehime, Fukui, Gifu, Hiroshima, Hyogo, Ishikawa, Kagawa, Kochi, Kyoto, Mie, Nara, Okayama, Shimane, Shiga, Tokushima, Tottori, Toyama, and Wakayama prefectures.http://osaka.usconsulate.govNagoya: Nagoya International Center Bldg. 6th floor, 1-47-1 Nagano, Nakamura-ku, Nagoya 450-0001; Tel (052) 581-4501, Fax: (052) 581-3190; providing emergency consular services only (including death and arrest cases) for Americans living in Aichi, Gifu, and Mie prefectures.http://nagoya.usconsulate.govFukuoka: 5-26, Ohori 2-chome, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka 810-0052; Tel: 092-751-9331, Fax: 092-713-9222; serving U.S. citizens in Fukuoka, Kagoshima, Kumamoto, Miyazaki, Nagasaki, Oita, Saga and Yamaguchi prefectures.http://fukuoka.usconsulate.govSapporo: Kita 1-jo, Nishi 28-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 064-0821; Tel: 011- 641-1115, Fax: 011-643-1283; serving U.S. citizens in Akita, Aomori, Hokkaido, Iwate and Miyagi prefectures.http://sapporo.usconsulate.govNaha: 2-1-1 Toyama, Urasoe City, Okinawa 901-2104; Phone: 098.876.4211, Fax: 098.876.4243, DSN: 645-7323; serving U.S. citizens in Okinawa and the Amami Oshima Island grouphttp://naha.usconsulate.gov