Across the country, millions of people are working, shopping, traveling, attending sporting events, concerts and college and universities. They are enjoying the American way of life.
Freedom may be at the heart of America, but the same things that make this country great also make us a target for those who want to do us harm.
More than a decade has passed since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. Over a period of time, people typically become less vigilant about the threat of terrorism and the chance of being at the scene of a terrorist act.
However, with the equally horrific events such as the Virginia Tech and Aurora, CO shootings we must always BE ALERT, BE AWARE and BE PREPARED.
With our federal, state and local governments working hard to keep us safe, we all play a role in securing our public spaces. You are the first line of defense in protecting our community from others wanting to do harm.
- Aware and observant citizens are invaluable allies.
- It is important to stay alert for the kind of suspicious activity that can indeed indicate potential danger to civilians and property.
Each and everyone is encouraged to be aware of suspicious behavior.
Be on the SAFE side……
Report Any Suspicious Activity
If it’s an emergency, dial 5555 or 281-476-9128 for immediate response.
- Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) are the main terrorist threat to public places
- IEDs are generally small and easily transportable
- Be alert to bags and packages left unattended
- If you see someone leave a bag, don’t touch it, clear the area and alert the authorities
During the planning phase, a terrorist will often conduct surveillance on a possible target. Instruct the participants to watch for the following suspicious behaviors:
- Taking photos or videotaping entrances and exits
- Trying to conceal their actions
- Asking inappropriate questions about schedules, the facility or security
- Using binoculars or drawing diagrams
- Be suspicious of items like wire, batteries, altered electronics, chemicals or various unidentifiable substances
- Take note if an individual demands an unusual amount of privacy
- Purchases of large amounts of chemicals, fertilizers or other suspicious items is an indicator.
- Observe when someone seems to be wearing unusually thick or bulky clothing – such apparel could indicate concealed explosives or weapons – especially if the clothing is inappropriate for the current season.
- If possible, place a solid physical object and/or some distance between you, bystanders and the possible threat.
- Strangers seen loitering near – or entering – exits or “employees only” areas warrant notifying your supervisor and/or police
- SJC has grown tremendously over the years. College identification badges should be worn by all employees as a means to identify people that belong.
- Students are required to have their student identification card on them at all times.
Report vehicles parked in prohibited areas, near entrances or exits, or apparently left vacant for long periods.
REMEMBER:
- Be aware and alert
- Don’t rely on others to take action
- Don’t ignore your instincts
We are all in this together. Report any suspicious behavior to SJCD Police Department.
If you would like to discuss this specific training further, please do not hesitate to contact us.
We would be happy to discuss any questions, comments or concerns you may have.
Ali Shah, Emergency Manager
281-998-6311
oem@sjcd.edu
Sabrina Naulings, Police Chief
281-476-1820
policetraining@sjcd.edu
The following video was made available by the Department of Homeland Security Grant Funded Project of the Regional Catastrophic Planning Initiative, produced by City of Houston Mayor's Office of Public Safety and Homeland Security
Caution: This video contains scenes that may be disturbing to young or sensitive viewers.