When walking at night, stick to busy, well-lit streets. Do not attempt to cross through parks, parking lots, or other large, deserted areas. Build- ings in disrepair, vacant lots, and unpopulated areas are all bad signs. The distribu- tion of people can reveal a great deal about the relative safety of the area; look for children playing, women walking in the open, and other signs of an active commu- nity. Keep in mind that a district can change character drastically between blocks. If you feel uncomfortable, leave as quickly and directly as you can, but don't allow fear of the unknown to turn you into a hermit. Careful, persistent exploration will build confidence and make your stay in an area much more rewarding. TERRORISM. Terrorism is a threat in Israel, as it is everywhere, from Oklahoma City to Manchester. Travelers need not feel like powerless bystanders, however. The chances of becoming a victim of terrorism are relatively low and can be low- ered further by taking certain precautions. You should be aware of the possibility of danger without letting it paralyze you. Avoid crowded areas and do not visit the West Bank or the Gaza Strip in the days following the announcement of a new building project or on the anniversary of previous attacks. TraveUng in the Palestinian territories can be dangerous, espe- cially in a car with the yellow license plates that identify the vehicle as Israeli. Jew- ish travelers should avoid identifying themselves as such. Simply placing a baseball cap over a kippah can prevent stares and hostility. Be aware of potential unrest in the West Bank by staying up to date with the news and contacting the consular division of the US Consulate General . Public transportation has been the target of several terrorist bombings, particu- larly local buses in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. Most bus bombings have occurred in the early morning rush hour; if your plans are flexible, avoid bus travel at this time. Travelers in Israel are more likely, however, to be affected by anti-terrorist mea- sures than by terrorism itself. The Israeli soldiers on every corner are there for your protection, but the prevalence of gun-toting 20-year-olds can be a little shock- ing. Do not leave bags unattended in public places. Termed "Hefetz Hashood," these bags are dealt with in a serious manner. They will be destroyed within minutes since in the past bombs have been left in trash cans or on street corners. Finally, expect stringent security measures, including bag searches or metal detectors, at muse- ums, bus stations, shopping malls, and public events. As of February 1998, the Israeli government has had the responsibility to supply the entire population with gas masks in times of emergency. The ministry of tour- ism has declared that there are enough masks for all tourists; those residing in hotels will receive them directly from these hotels, while others will receive them from designated department stores.