Armed against terrorism - Airman Consumer - Brief Article

As America began to comprehend the impact of terror, a question was whispered. "How could this happen?" One day in September has changed us. Now we better understand the impact of terrorism.

As a nation, on Sept. 11, we felt helpless watching the World Trade Center collapse and the Pentagon smolder on television. We were all afraid. Afraid of the future of our country.

America has launched a counterattack on terrorism. In a world where e-mail and mobile phones are terrorists' "tools," electronic surveillance has become essential to national security. But this assault doesn't come without a price. Two days after the national tragedies, the Senate unanimously approved an amendment allowing nationwide "traps and traces," to capture telephone and electronic message information with the approval of a judge.

Combating the threat of destruction is real. But at a local level, there are some simple security precautions that can reduce the risk of terrorist activity.

A few things to keep in mind when traveling:

* When going outside the United States, identify high threat locations through your local office of special investigations prior to departure.

* Restrict distribution of your itinerary to those who have a need to know.

* Do not use military rank when making reservations.

* Eliminate military-related addresses or emblems on luggage.

* Keep luggage locked and controlled at all times.

* Make copies of essential documents [passport, identification and leave or temporary duty paperwork] and disperse them throughout your luggage.

* Dress in casual civilian clothes and keep a low profile when traveling.

* Immediately report unattended luggage or suspicious activity to airline or security personnel.

When driving, it's also necessary to minimize vulnerability. These tips apply to military members and their families:

* Keep your vehicle maintained and the gas tank at least half full.

* Know alternate routes to routine locations and use them randomly.

* Park in a secure lot or open, well-lit area.

* Exercise caution, with keys in hand, when approaching your vehicle.

* Lock doors upon entering your car.

* Ensure someone knows your departure and arrival time.

* Know where "safe havens" like police and fire stations, hospitals and embassies are located.

Don't assume you're safe because you're in a building. On the job, prepare for emergencies and brief the plan to all staff members:

* Keep emergency data cards on all personnel.

* Avoid marked parking spaces - they could make vehicles a target.

* Lock and control unused rooms or closets.

* Immediately report unattended packages or suspicious activity to security forces.

* Do not provide personnel information over the phone.

* Have a staff evacuation plan and meeting location identified.

In anti-terrorism briefings, we're told to report suspicious packages and to be aware of our surroundings. Never have these precautions been more real. Strangers, suspicious activities and unattended items could become disastrous if left unreported.

Anti-terrorism is everyone's responsibility.

source: Office of Special Investigations

COPYRIGHT 2001 U.S. Air Force, Air Force News Agency
COPYRIGHT 2001 Gale Group