Gun-related deaths in the U.S. have increased in recent years, and mass shootings have become commonplace. Even though mass shootings account for a small percentage of gun-related deaths in the U.S., the worst of them still make headlines around the world. Different countries have travel advisories for those visiting the U.S., and the advisories, aren’t always flattering, CNN reports. Violent crime rarely includes tourists, but some countries mentioned violence in their advisories. The Australian government warns its citizens who plan to visit the U.S. that violent crime is more common than in Australia and gun crime is possible in all areas. Australians are encouraged to learn active shooter drills if they live in the United States.
Canada warns about gang and organized crime-related violence in large urban areas and also discusses the U.S.-Mexico border as an area of concern. The government also reminds Canadians of the frequent mass shootings in the United States. The United Kingdom reminds would-be visitors to America that “incidents of mass shooting can occur, but account for a very small percentage of homicide deaths.” Israel identifies the U.S. as a low-risk country. The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs says generally “the United States of America is among the safest countries,” but it does warn French citizens about some urban areas and notes an increase in carjackings. Germany’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs tells German citizens that “it is easy to obtain guns in the United States, leading to increased use of guns and occasional killing sprees. The number of arms and ammunition purchases has increased significantly during the Covid-19 pandemic.”