Cook County Reminds Residents 'If You See Something, Say Something'

The terror attacks on mosques in New Zealand serve as a reminder to residents here to remain alert and vigilant, according to the Cook County Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM). The department stresses the importance of the “If You See Something, Say Something”™ anti-terrorism campaign, urging residents to call 9-1-1 or notify on-site security for any immediate threats to life or property. Residents are asked to report any non-emergency suspicious activity by calling 855-RPRT-2-S4, the official local number of the campaign.

“Our residents are our first line of defense in identifying and reporting any threats to public safety,” said William Barnes, executive director of DHSEM. “Always be aware of your surroundings and do not hesitate to alert authorities to anything that appears unusual or out of place.”

Suspicious activity may include:

• Unusual items or situations: a vehicle parked in an odd location; an unattended package or backpack.
• Information gathering: A person questioning individuals beyond simple curiosity about a building’s operations, security, shift changes or personnel.
• Observation: Someone paying unusual attention to a facility, beyond a casual or professional interest. This includes loitering, as well as prolonged and repeated visits. It may also involve documenting these visits with a camera or extensive notes, measurements and sketches.

DHSEM launched the “If You See Something, Say Something”™ campaign in 2015 in partnership with the City of Chicago and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.