Reporting Terrorism Threats:

What to watch for

Homeland Security

Reporting threats

is an important part of homeland security.

Terrorists

try to promote their beliefs by:

• threatening and committing violence
• disrupting daily life
• creating uncertainty, panic and fear

Our government

is working hard to defend our homeland by preventing and responding to terrorism threats- and by bringing the people behind them to justice.

You can help

defend our country. Through vigilance and common sense, you can make a difference-by reporting suspicious activities and materials to the proper authorities.

Awareness and reason

are your best defenses against terrorism threats.

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.

For example, check the identity of visitors to your work place.

Understand:

• what precautions to take for the type of work you do
• how to report anything suspicious

Recognize potential targets.

Be alert in your community- or wherever you might be.

Balance Vigilance with respect for others’ rights.

People of all cultures, religions and ethnic groups deserve respect.

Use caution to protect your safety.

Report you observations with out drawing a suspect’s attention.

Targets of terrorism

may include:

Symbols

Of a nation, city or institution, such as:

• government buildings
• financial districts
• major monuments
• tourist attractions
• other landmarks

Utilities

-power plants, water supplies, etc.

Transportation systems

For example:

• hospitals
• police stations
• fire stations
• military bases.

Special events facilities

-such as indoor arenas and stadiums.

Communications systems

-for example, phone services, computer networks and mail delivery services.

Be aware

of strange behavior-but don’t take matters into your own hands. Alert your supervisor, or the police or sheriff at once if a person:

Seems to be hiding something

-such as a package or weapon.

Tries to enter a facility

Or use a vehicle without the required credentials.

Seeks access

To restricted areas or supplies. For example:

• water wells at food processing plants
• municipal reservoirs
• chemicals, fertilizers or other hazardous materials.

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 might be a target.

Provide as many details as you can

-for example, the person’s gender, build, estimated age, clothing and directions of travel.

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 address by hand
• is unexpected-especially if it arrived from abroad or by special delivery
• has excessive postage
• has common words misspelled
• smells odd
• is unevenly shaped or unusually heavy for its size
• shows signs of leaks or stains
• has wires sticking out
• makes a ticking, buzzing or sloshing noise.

Remain calm

-remember that suspicious mail may be a hoax. To be safe:

• Do not open or shake the item.
• Isolate the item in a sealed plastic bag or other container. If a container is not available, cover the item with paper, clothing or and empty trash can.
• Call the police or sheriff.

If an opened item contains a powder or chemical,

leave the item in its place-do not move it or bring it to show others.

• Leave the immediate area.
• Do not touch your mouth or face.
• Make sure all who have touched the item wash their hands with soap and water
• Call the police or sheriff

If you think an item contains a bomb,

Evacuate the building at once.

• Do not use a radio or cell phone near the item.
• Call the police or sheriff

For more information,

contact:

• your local or state department of public health
• Centers for Disease Control Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Site www.bt.cdc.gov
• Federal Bureau of Investigation www.fbi.gov
• Federal Emergency Management Agency www.fema.gov
• Office of Homeland Security www.whitehouse.gov/homeland

Trust your instincts-and take steps to stay safe and calm.

The publisher has taken care in the preparation of this information, it does not necessarily describe particular situations you may encounter. You should ask a qualified expert or professional for advice about your particular situation.

Information taken from pamphlets provided by: Connecticut Clearinghouse (A library and Resource Center on Alcohol, Tobacco, Other Drugs, Mental Health and Wellness) (800) 232-4424 http://www.ctclearinghouse.org/