If You See Something, Say Something
We all have a role to play when it comes to keeping our campus and community safe. It’s simple: If you notice anything suspicious, immediately let law enforcement know. Your action could prevent terrorism and save lives.
What Is Suspicious Activity?
According to the Department of Homeland Security, suspicious activity is any observed behavior that could indicate terrorism or terrorism-related crime. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Observation/surveillance: Someone pays unusual attention to facilities or buildings beyond a casual or professional interest. This includes extended loitering without explanation (particularly in concealed locations); unusual, repeated, and/or prolonged observation of a building (e.g., with binoculars or video camera); taking notes or measurements; counting paces; sketching floor plans, etc.
- Unusual items or situations: A vehicle is parked in an odd location, a package/luggage is unattended, a window/door is open that is usually closed, or other out-of-the-ordinary situations.
- Eliciting information: A person questions individuals at a level beyond curiosity about a building’s purpose, operations, security procedures and/or personnel, shift changes, etc.
Some of these activities could be innocent — it’s up to law enforcement to determine whether the behavior warrants investigation. The activities above are not all-inclusive, but have been compiled based on studies of pre-operational aspects of both successful and thwarted terrorist events over several years.
Who Do You Contact?
It’s important to report suspicious activity immediately.
In an emergency: Call 9-1-1.
On campus: Call Safety & Security for your location.
