Keeping our communities safe is something everyone can participate in. The Department of Homeland Security and the Winston-Salem Police Department asks for you to be observant and aware. Many times we don't realize or consider that something or someone is suspicious until after some time has passed. One of the keys is to change that way of thinking so that law enforcement officials can respond and investigate while the suspicious activity is taking place. There are several ways you can help us:
- Write down the vehicle tag, vehicle description (make, model, and color), number of occupants, and direction of travel.
- Describe the suspect(s) with as much detail as possible (height, weight, clothing description, including shoes). Are they carrying any bags? What color are the bags?
- Pay attention to the time that you witnessed the subjects; write it down.
Use common sense to determine whether or not something is out of the ordinary. For example, if you were at a National Monument or location and you notice someone taking photographs, that wouldn't be unusual. However, if you saw someone taking pictures of surveillance cameras, entrance barriers and other security measures, then that would be something altogether different. Additional locations of interest might also include:
- Water Treatment Facilities
- Power Facilities
- Fuel Storage Facilities
- Federal Buildings
- Places that have mass gatherings (i.e., places of worship, concerts, and amusement parks)
Learn what Homeland Security and other local agencies such as the American Red Cross are doing to inform the public on terrorism awareness, preparedness, and how to report suspicious persons, objects, or behaviors by going to the following links:
Note: These links will open in a new window and take you to web sites outside the City of Winston-Salem site.
Terrorism: Preparing for the Unexpected
Family Disaster Plan
Disaster Supplies Kit [pdf/667kb/14p]
Department of Homeland Security PSA video