“See Something, Say Something”

The Montgomery County Police Department is extending its deepest sympathies to those affected by the events at the Boston Marathon.  While there is no information that a direct security threat to Montgomery County exists, police said officers remain vigilant.  Officers are also encouraging residents to report suspicious behavior to police – “See Something Say Something.”

The Department of Homeland Security has developed seven signs of suspicious behavior associated with terrorism (listed below).  Police said 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.

Officers respond to all calls of suspicious activity.  Police are reminding residents to remember:  “If you see something, say something.”

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