Ohio Homeland Security Asks Public “See Something, Say Something”

Officials from Ohio Homeland Security are stressing the importance of a well informed and aware public in order to detect, deter and prevent actual terrorist events in our state. An engaged and aware public is crucial in deterring these threats and maintaining the safety and security of all Ohioans, says the agency.

Ohio Homeland Security says the public’s reporting of suspicious activity is one of the best defenses against terrorist threats and the greatest resource to building resilience. Every day, members of the public work with law enforcement officers to help keep communities safe by reporting activities that are out of the ordinary and suspicious. These reports play a vital role in countering terrorism and crime. An aware and engaged public that understands what constitutes unusual and suspicious behavior is essential to protecting our communities from terrorist threats, says the agency.

Ohio Homeland Security says the following are some examples of unusual activities that should cause a heightened sense of suspicion:

• Monitoring personnel or vehicles entering/leaving facilities or parking area
• Burns on body, missing finger(s) or hand, bloody clothing, bleached body hair or bright colored stains on clothing; switch or wires concealed in hand, clothing or backpack
• Unusual or prolonged interest in the following: security measures or personnel; security cameras; entry points and access controls; perimeter barriers (fences/walls); unattended train or bus
• Purposely placing objects (e.g., packages, luggage, vehicles) in sensitive or vulnerable areas to observe security responses
• Individuals or actions which are out of place for their surroundings (e.g., over or underdressed for the weather)
• Unusual, vague, or cryptic threats, warnings, or comments about harming others

Officials stress that some of these activities, taken individually, could be innocent and must be examined by law enforcement professionals in a larger context to determine where there is a basis to investigate. The activities outlined above are by no means all-inclusive but have been compiled from a review of terrorist events over several years.

You can contact Ohio Homeland Security at 1-877-OHS-INTEL or for emergencies, call 911.