Like an episode of 48 hours, on Saturday New Yorkers and New Jerseyans experienced terrorism up close. For many who were in the area, it was terrifying and people were visibly shaken having to flee restaurants, art galleries and their homes. Events like the one that occurred yesterday can often stay in one’s mind forever. It is a time when safety becomes paramount.
Terrorism is defined as any use of violence and intimidation in the pursuit of political aims while an act of terrorism What was first announced as the act of terrorism (a action to frighten people) is now deemed as actual terrorism by our law enforcement officials. While many Americans awaits alerts that the terror suspect has been captured from our smart devices, all Americans are asked to be alert, cautious and ready (if you see something, say something, notify the police ASAP). Safety and security professional have an added responsibility and the following are some guideline to help keep everyone safe:
- Make certain all surveillance cameras are working properly (visibility/record & review)
- Performing extra perimeter rounds should be taken seriously while the terror suspect is on the run
- Secure all parking lot areas and tighten security at all entrances.
- Make sure staff is presenting IDs where it is required in the facility
Update as of Monday September 19, 2016 12pm:
Please visit the FBI link below for further details regarding the capture of terror suspect Ahmad Khan Rahami from Elizabeth, NJ : fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/newyork
The suspect has been captured but all security professional should review their policies and procedure regarding a terrorism alert. Here are some suggestions on what it should entail:
- Do you have a policy and procedure regarding how to respond to a Terrorism Alert.
- Was the the policy and procedure followed by staff.
- Staff Alert notification working and activated.
- Was the Equipment checklist reviewed and activated.
- Rounds checklist: What time it was activated and completed and what were the findings?
- A summary and staff ratings should be recorded and documented as a exercise.
To report any terrorism acts please visit the link: tips.fbi.gov.
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