If You See Something, Say Something

On Wednesday, the Department of Homeland Security officially launched the anti-terrorism campaign "If You See Something, Say Something" which encourages all of us to report suspicious activity to our local authorities.

But sometimes, this message can be confusing because people wonder whether or not they should really call 9-1-1 for suspicious observations if we can't determine whether or not lives are at risk.  We often fight against the urge to report and sometimes our peers will disagree with what we might feel, in our guts, is suspicious.

You certainly can report suspicious activity to 9-1-1; however, if you hesitate or are unsure whether or not you should, definitely consider the following.  The Washington State Fusion Center has an internet-based form or phone number at 877-843-9522 through which you can file anonymous reports.  If you have any doubt at all, there is a one-page description that defines activities which can be considered suspicious.

Familiarize yourself with these categories today so that you can be alert to report suspicious activities when you see them.  The following short video was produced by the Department of Homeland Security and you will likely see more short ads and other billboards promoting this same message.

Remember, it takes an alert community to prevent terrorism.