If you see something say something

  • Published
  • By Mr. P. J. Pallotta
  • 5th Bomb Wing Anti-terrorism Office
MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D., --  No one knows what goes on in your neighborhood, work center, recreation areas, etc. better than you. You may see things or hear things that seem out of the ordinary and may indicate suspicious or illegal conduct. Law enforcement officials nation-wide often rely on the instincts and perceptions of citizens to detect activity that is out of the ordinary. 

If you see something, say something! Be suspicious of anything out of place or unattanded. Tell a police officer, security forces person, or your supervisor if you notice something suspicious. The Minot AFB Anti-terrorism Office coupled with base security forces and local law enforcement are encouraging base residents and local public to report any activity that is out of the ordinary, said P.J. Pallotta, Minot AFB Anti-terrorism officer. "Ideally, we want the public to take an active role in helping to keep the base and Minot community safe and secure." 

"Public safety and overall security is a serious matter. To remain a safe and secure base and community, we need all residents to continue to help us. Our message is clear and distinct, 'If you see something, say something.' That's true of anywhere on base or in the local community. If something seems suspicious, call law enforcement directly or call 911. We would all rather be safe than sorry," said Mr. Timothy Allen, Minot AFB Anti-terrorism Office. 

Military, state and local agencies continue to work together educating the public to be more aware of their surroundings, and report any behavior that may appear suspicious. Noting that if it doesn't look right, it probably isn't Pallotta said, "Trust your instincts. Residents of the base and local community act as our first-line sensors providing extra eyes and ears to make the base and local community safer. No matter how minor the incident, if you see something, say something. Sound the alarm without hesitation; the sooner the better!" 

"Our ability to protect the base populace, resources and local community depends on citizen involvement," said Pallotta. "When it comes to fighting terrorism in North Dakota and elsewhere, everyone can play a part by calling authorities and alerting them to suspicious activity." 

Below are some tips to keep a watchful eye; report ASAP! 

· Watch for suspicious vehicles/personnel parked adjacent to any part of the installation perimeter; when in doubt, call security forces and report it. 

· Watch for backpacks, packages, or bags placed in out-of-the way locations. 

· Watch for packages that contain attached batteries, wires, cell phones, or notes.
 
· Watch for packages that emit a suspicious cloud, mist, gas, or odor. 

· Watch for suspicious behavior such as individuals who abandon a package, and then hastily depart the location. 

· Watch for a group of people acting in a rehearsed manner. 

· Watch for people carrying spray bottles or aerosol canisters. 

· Watch for people monitoring or recording the base, large event locations and military convoys. 

· Watch for people who may wear clothing out of sync with the weather, who display excessive sweating, mumbling, fidgeting or conversely being unusually calm and detached, who continuously pats upper body clothing as if they were checking for something (potential behavior of a suicide bomber) or who's eyes are focused and seems to be in a trance. 

Who to Call: Call your local emergency number, usually 911 or the Minot AFB Law Enforcement Desk at 723-3096.