Signs of Suspicious Behavior: See Something, Say Something, Call 911

Signs of Suspicious Behavior: See Something, Say Something, Call 911

The City of Gaithersburg has distributed the following notice from the Department of Homeland Security. Terrorism is a timely topic for family discussions. All of us need to be alert for the signs of terrorism.  Please make an immediate call to 911 if you identify any of these or other suspicious activities.

The Department of Homeland Security has developed seven signs of suspicious behavior associated with terrorism (listed below). It is important to call 911 if any of the following behavior is observed:

1. Surveillance: Recording or monitoring activities. May include drawing diagrams, note taking, use of cameras, binoculars or other vision-enhancing devices or possessing floor plans or blueprints of key facilities.
2. Elicitation: Attempts to obtain operation, security and/or personnel-related information about a facility. Attempts may be made by mail, fax, e-mail, telephone or in person.
3. Tests of Security: Attempts to measure reaction times to security breaches or to penetrate physical security barriers or procedures in order to assess strengths and weaknesses.
4. Acquiring Supplies: Attempts to improperly acquire items that could be used in a terrorist act. May include the acquisition of explosives, weapons, harmful chemicals, flight manuals, law enforcement or military equipment, uniforms, identification badges or the equipment to manufacture false identification.
5. Suspicious Persons: Someone who does not appear to belong in a workplace, neighborhood or business establishment due to their behavior. May ask unusual questions.
6. Dry Runs/Trial Runs: Behavior that appears to be preparation for a terrorist act without actually committing the act. Activity could include mapping out routes and determining the timing of traffic lights and flow.
7. Deploying Assets: Placing people, equipment and supplies into position to commit the act. This is the last opportunity to alert authorities before the terrorist act occurs.

Police Officers will respond to all calls of suspicious activity. Remember: If you see something, say something.

Allium, Kentlands, Spring Flowers IMG_9524

Photograph by Roy Kelley using a Canon PowerShot G11 camera.

Roy and Dolores Kelley Photographs