Homeland Security

American Red Cross Recommendations

Heightened State of Alert
A heightened state of alert is a mindset that leads you to notice unusual or suspicious behavior/circumstances and reporting your observations to authorities in a logical, rational and timely manner. A heightened state of alert is not intended to induce fear and panic. People should go about their normal business while paying particular attention to their surroundings.

Homeland Security Advisory System
The following alert codes have been established by the Department of Homeland Security as a method of alerting the public of potential terrorist attacks:

Suspicious Behavior/Circumstances:
Be aware of and report to the Moraine Valley Police Department:

• People in and around buildings who do not appear to be conducting legitimate business.

• People monitoring areas, buildings or entrances.

• Unauthorized people in restricted, sensitive or private areas.

• People requesting information with no apparent need for that information.

• People wearing clothing not consistent with the weather conditions.

• Abandoned parcels or other suspicious items left in unusual locations.

• Individuals or groups of individuals attempting to access utility locations (water, electrical, petroleum, telecommunications, information systems).

• Abandoned vehicles.

• Vehicles parked near buildings or public areas.

• Unexpected/Unfamiliar delivery trucks.

• Unfamiliar vehicles parked for long periods of time.

• Vehicles containing unusual or suspicious parcels or materials.

• Vehicles arriving and being left behind at odd hours.

• Substances leaking or spilling from vehicles.

Building/Office Security:

• Don't prop open building doors or windows. Correct these situations when you observe them.
• Account for and secure your keys. Don't leave them unattended or give to unauthorized persons. Report lost keys to the Police Department.
• Account for and secure all sensitive material/information/deliveries when not able to attend to it.
• Secure all areas when not attended.
• Be aware of unfamiliar persons in your area.
• Protect access codes, combinations and swipe cards. Change codes regularly.
• Take time out to familiarize yourself with building evacuation routes.
• Report suspicious tampering with physical security (doors, locks. etc.)
• Talk with co-workers; know what is out-of-place (unclaimed items, etc.)

For more information about Homeland Security and planning to protect yourself, visit the Following Web sites:

www.ready.gov
www.ready.illinois.gov
www.dhs.gov/dhspublic