Consider terrorist threat protection this holiday season Published Dec. 4, 2006 By Ron Parker 60th AMW Antiterrorism advisor TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Terrorism is an indiscriminate crime that comes in varying forms of threats and violence and is used primarily to attain political goals of one form or another. Terrorists generate fear through acts of violence, intimidation and coercion. As recent events have shown, terrorists have reached new levels of organization, sophistication and violence. Terrorist tactics and techniques are changing and challenging the effectiveness of our current anti-terrorist measures. Over the upcoming holiday season, we must continue to change our mindset about terrorism. Awareness is the key By practicing techniques and proven security habits and becoming more knowledgeable of the threat, the possibility of becoming a terrorist target will be lessened. Through constant awareness, Americans can protect themselves and their family from acts of terrorism. Unattended items Be aware of your surroundings and report the locations of all unattended items such as luggage, gym bags, packages, boxes, etc., located near government facilities. It is extremely important not to attempt to inspect the unattended items. Move as far away from unattended items as possible and leave inspections to trained personnel. Deadly explosive devices can be concealed in relatively small packages or containers. These items may not appear to be threatening, but will be unattended and look out of place. Suspicious letters or packages Characteristics of suspicious packages or letters include: - Excessive postage - Handwritten or poorly typed addresses - Incorrect titles - Title, but no name - Misspellings of common words - Oily stains, discolorations or odor - Evidence of powdery substances - No return address If you have any reason to believe a letter or parcel is suspicious, call for immediate assistance. If at home, immediately report the situation to local police. If at work and or home on base, immediately report your discovery to the Security Forces by calling 424-2800. Additional preventative actions At airports: - Arrive early; watch for suspicious activity. - Use concealed bag name tags. - Follow all airport security procedures. - Be aware of unattended baggage anywhere in the terminal. - Keep a low profile in dress and demeanor. - When questioned by airport personnel, be direct and honest. - Do not leave personal belongings unattended. This provides an opportunity for a terrorist to place an unwanted object or device in your carry-on bag. - As much as possible, do not pack anything you cannot afford to lose; if the documents are important, carry a copy. - Be extremely observant of personal carry-on luggage. Thefts of briefcases designed for laptop computers are increasing at airports worldwide. - Report suspicious activity to the airport security personnel. At hotels: - Do not give room number to strangers. - Choose an inside hotel room, preferably between the 3rd and 10th floors. - Leave lights on and a television or a radio, when room is vacant. - Close curtains. - Do not use name or rank when answering the telephone. - Do not use your rank when signing into off-base establishments. - Locate alternate exits in case of emergency. - Keep your room key/card in your possession at all times. Storing items in your private owned vehicle: During the holiday season vehicle break-ins are a common occurrence at off- base shopping locations. Park your vehicle in a well lit area, do not store government equipment/sensitive items in your vehicle and keep your valuables secured and out of sight. Remember to remain alert to your surroundings and report suspicious activity immediately to the appropriate authorities.