State Rep. Mark Tisdel today urged Michigan residents traveling internationally to get relevant, current information during their trips by enrolling in a free federal program.

Americans traveling or residing internationally can participate in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), administered by the U.S. State Department. The program informs travelers about local safety conditions and emergencies.

“People traveling to other countries should sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, which provides localized updates to visiting Americans,” said Tisdel, of Rochester Hills. “International crises, like turmoil in Afghanistan and now developing uncertainty in Ukraine, can change rapidly and cause chaos for those in the area. Even in more stable locations, the program can apprise American travelers of urgent news that could affect their trips, as well as about family emergencies back home.”

Additional information about STEP can be found on the federal program’s website: step.state.gov.

Tisdel also noted that since COVID-19 protocols vary between countries, anyone traveling should remember to research entry requirements ahead of time and prepare accordingly.