From CNN Travel Correspondent Lori Waffenschmidt

(CNN) -- Most Americans traveling outside the country visit safe destinations.

But, it's best to take some extra precautions when planning trips to certain parts of the world.

The U.S. State Department offers free information on security threats in various countries and tips on avoiding problems during a trip. (Available online at: http://travel.state.gov)

"We have a whole travel information program where we provide consular information sheets on every country in the world," said Kathy Peterson, a State Department spokeswoman.

The sheets list entry requirements, health conditions, the location of the U.S. embassy or consulate and crime and security information.

The State Department also issues alerts for countries at times when travelers could be at greater risk.

"When there's a specific problem that arises then we will issue a public announcement," Peterson said. "We also put out occasional travel warnings when the situation in an entire country is problematic and we recommend that people defer travel to that particular country."

State Department travel information is available through fax, on the Internet and from travel agents.

CNN Interactive's TravelGuide also offers updates on the State Department's travel announcements and warnings.

In addition, some security consulting companies provide travel information for a fee.

"They provide anywhere from basic information on how to get to and from the airport to your hotel, which taxis to take and so forth, to the numbers for the embassy and local hospital and emergency numbers you might need," said Cynthia Kaplan of The Kroll-O'Gara Company, a security firm that offers travel advisories to companies and individuals.

Travelers should keep in mind that information about travel in certain countries can change quickly and should check for updates before embarking on their journeys.