September 25th: See Something, Say Something
The recent anniversary of the September 11th attacks remind us that “If you see something, you should say something”. This campaign from the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) was created to raise public awareness about terrorism and the importance of reporting suspicious activity to state and local authorities. September 25th is the official #SeeSayDay.
What are the campaign details?
- Local communities and citizens play an important role in preventing terrorism and keeping our communities safe.
- Anyone should feel empowered to report suspicious activity to law enforcement.
- Factors such as race, ethnicity, gender, religion, national origin, sexual orientation or gender identity are not suspicious.
- Call your local law enforcement agency or 9-1-1 in case of an emergency or if a crime is in progress.
How did the campaign get started?
- New York’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority developed and licensed the slogan to the DHS for anti-terrorism efforts.
- The campaign was launched in conjunction with the US Department of Justice’s Nationwide Suspicious Activity Reporting Initiative.
What is the Nationwide Suspicious Activity Initiative?
- The Nationwide Suspicious Activity Reporting (SAR) Initiative (NSI) is a joint law enforcement effort by the DHS, the FBI, state, local and other law enforcement partners.
- It is another tool to help prevent terrorism and other related criminal activity. It creates a national capacity for gathering, analyzing and sharing SAR information.
How do I know if an activity is suspicious?
- Suspicious activity may include an unusual interest in gaining sensitive information about facility security, operations or maintenance.
- An unattended bag or backpack.
- Suspicious purchases of items that could be used to make an explosive device, including gasoline, propane or certain fertilizers.
- Theft of explosive materials.
- Theft of security personnel uniforms or credentials.
- Attempted or unauthorized access to rooftops or other potentially sensitive areas.
- Individuals acting suspiciously around the entrances to an event location.
- Unusual or bulky clothing that is inconsistent with the weather.
What information should I report?
- Who or what you saw
- When you saw it
- Where it occurred
- Why it’s suspicious
This campaign is an important tool to help protect our communities. Be the one that speaks up; your tip could help save a life!
Cultris Security is here to help with your alarm, surveillance and monitoring needs. Contact us online or call 281-506-8466.
Image from the US Department of Homeland Security www.dhs.gov
