Sierra Leone will hold a general election on 24 June. IncreasedMany politicalbusinesses may be closed over the weekend, and large queues are expected at polling stations across the country which open at 0700. Additional security forces are also being deployed. When approaching a checkpoint, slow down and pay attention to the instructions given by the security officials. Further tensions and political gatherings are likely.possible in the days after elections as counting gets underway. You are advised to avoid any political gatherings or demonstrations, and comply with any restrictions that are put in place.

See our travel advice help and support for details of who to contact in an emergency.

It is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the FCDO’s guidance on foreign travel insurance.

Most visits to Sierra Leone are incident free, but a small number of incidents have been reported of British nationals being robbed, sometimes at knife-point. See Crime

You will need a visa to enter Sierra Leone. See Visas

If you travel outside the Freetown peninsula, try to complete your travel during the hours of daylight, inform your employers of your whereabouts and make sure they have copies of your itinerary. See Local travel

There are several transfer options from Freetown Lungi airport, including by road, ferry, water taxi and local boats or pirogues. See Travel to Freetown from the airport

Although there is no recent history of terrorism in Sierra Leone, attacks can’t be ruled out. Attacks could be indiscriminate. You should be vigilant, especially in places visited by foreigners. See Terrorism

If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission.

Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel and make sure your insurance specifically includes medical repatriation.