
A Travel Warning may be issued recommending that Canadians avoid "all travel" or "non-essential travel" to a country or region, and in some cases, recommending that Canadians depart that country or region. The definition of "non-essential travel" is a personal matter, based on each individual's family or business requirements, knowledge of a country or region, and other issues.
Where there are no Travel Warnings, security levels will be either "exercise normal security precautions" or "exercise a high degree of caution." The latter covers instances where, for example, there is an elevated threat of political or social unrest and travellers should maintain heightened personal security awareness, particularly in commercial and public establishments.