General Safety Recommendations Regarding Suspected Terrorist Activities

Heightened Security is not intended to induce fear and panic. People should go about their normal business while paying particular attention to their surroundings.

Suspicious Behavior/Circumstances:

Be aware of and report to Public Safety the following conditions at (718) 631-6320 or if off-campus notify outside law enforcement at 911:

People in buildings or areas who do not appear to be conducting legitimate business.
People monitoring areas, buildings or entrances.
Unauthorized people in restricted, sensitive or private areas.
Persons taking photographs of critical facilities.
Persons asking detailed information about physical security and/or information with no apparent need for that information.
People wearing clothing not consistent with the weather conditions (bulky coat in warm weather etc.)
Abandoned parcels or other items in unusual locations or high traffic areas.
Individual attempting to access utility locations (water, electrical, petroleum, telecommunications, information systems).
Multiple persons who appear to be working in unison, committing the above.

Be Alert to:

Abandoned Vehicles
Vehicles Parked Near Buildings or Public and Common Areas
Unexpected/Unfamiliar Delivery Trucks
Unfamiliar Vehicles Parked For Long Periods
Vehicles Containing Unusual/Suspicious Parcels or Material
Vehicles Arriving and Being Left Behind at Odd Hours
Substances Leaking or Spilling from Vehicles

Building/Office Security:

Don't prop open building entrance doors/windows. Rectify these situations when you observe them.
Account for and secure keys. Don't leave them unattended or give to unauthorized persons. Report lost keys to building manager/department head.
Account for and secure all sensitive material/information when not able to attend to it.
Account for and secure sensitive deliveries in a timely manner.
Secure all areas when not attended.
Be aware of unfamiliar persons in or visitors to your office/lab etc.
Protect access codes, combinations and cards, change codes regularly. Report compromised codes to the person in charge of area.
Be Prepared: Take time out to familiarize yourself with building evacuation plans/routes.
Report suspicious tampering with physical security (doors, locks etc.)
Talk with co-workers; know what is out-of-place (unclaimed items etc.)

Additional Safety Recommendations:

Closely monitor news reports and Emergency Alert System (EAS) radio/TV stations.
Expect delays, searches of purses and bags, and restricted access to public buildings.
Expect traffic delays and restrictions.
Take personal security precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime or terrorist attack.
Avoid crowded public areas and gatherings.
Do not travel into areas affected by the attack or is an expected terrorist target.
Keep emergency supplies accessible and automobile fuel tank full.
Be prepared to evacuate your home or shelter in place on order of local authorities.
Develop and review family emergency plans.
Be prepared for disasters and family emergencies.
Increase family emergency preparedness by purchasing supplies, food, and storing water.
Assist neighbors who may need help.
Avoid passing unsubstantiated information and rumors.
Continue normal activities but be watchful for suspicious activities. Report criminal and suspicious activity to local law enforcement. Continue to enjoy individual freedom. Participate freely in travel, work, and recreational activities.
Take a first aid and CPR classes.
Become active in your local Neighborhood Crime Watch program.
Network with your family, neighbors, and community for mutual support during a disaster or terrorist attack.
Learn what critical facilities are located in your community and report suspicious activities at or near these sites.
Contact local officials to learn about specific hazards in your community.
Increase individual or family emergency preparedness through training, maintaining good physical fitness and health, and storing food, water, and emergency supplies.
Be familiar with local natural and technological (man made) hazards in your community and what measures you can take to protect your family.
Keep recommended immunizations up-to-date.
Know how to turn off your power, gas, and water service to your house.
Know what hazardous materials are stored in your home and how to properly dispose of unneeded chemicals.
Support the efforts of your local emergency responders (public safety, fire fighters, law enforcement and emergency medical service).
Volunteer to assist and support the community emergency response agencies.

For further information contact the Department of Homeland Security’s website: http://www.dhs.gov/dhspublic/interapp/editorial/editorial_0284.xml

If you have any non-emergency questions related to this Safety Advisory, please feel free to call Public Safety at ext. 6320.