TERRORISM

Terrorism is a real threat. But the chance that you will be a victim of a terrorist attack is small. It is important to be cautious, but to not let fear rule your life. Let common sense guide you, not fear.

What is Terrorism...

Terrorist try to force or intimidate a government or civilian population into making changes. They try to reach political or social goals through violence and disruption of society.

What you can you do....

• Be sensitive to your surroundings. Calmly take in what is happening, who is there and anything that seems out of place.

• Know and follow all security procedures.

• Recognize potential targets such as:     

• Symbols-Government buildings, financial districts, monuments, tourist attractions

  • Utilities-Electricity plants, water and sewage treatment plants

  • Transportation Systems-airports, bus terminals, bridges

  • Public Safety Areas- hospitals, police stations, fire stations, military bases

  • Communication Systems and Special Events Venues

• Be aware of strange behavior, but do not take matters into your own hands. Alert the sheriff or police immediately if a person

• Seems to be hiding something such as a package or a weapon.

• Tries to enter a facility or use a vehicle without the required credentials.

• Seeks access to restricted areas like water treatment plants, food processing plants, chemicals or other hazardous material storage.

• Hangs around a facility or drives past it again and again. 

• Leaves a possession such as a briefcase, suitcase or package in a place that may be a target.

• balance vigilance with respect for other's rights.

SPOTTING STRANGE LETTERS AND PACKAGES

Be suspicious if an envelope or package:

• Has no return address or one that makes no sense.

• Is supposedly from a business but is addressed by hand.

• Has excessive postage.

• Has common words misspelled

• Is unexpected, smells odd, is unevenly shaped, is unusually heavy for it's size or makes any unusual sounds.

Remain calm, remember that a suspicious mail may e a hoax. To be safe:

• Do not open or shake the item.

• Isolate the item in a sealed plastic bag or other container

• Call the sheriff or police.

TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS AND TAKE STEPS TO STAY SAFE AND CALM