What the FBI Terror Alert for July 4 Means for Burlington

The FBI is on high alert and has joined the Department of Homeland Security to warn local law enforcement officials across the country about a heightened concern of terrorist attacks over the Fourth of July holiday.

Sound familiar?

Good reason: Law enforcement often issue warnings over holidays and major national events in an abundance of caution knowing that, from a terrorist’s point of view, the timing of an attack can determine how much coverage it gets.

For this holiday, though, there are additional concerns, including the recruiting ISIS has done in the United States and the potential for relatively small-scale, but still dangerous, “lone wolf” attacks.

Following overseas attacks in June, Department of Homeland Security Jeb Johnson said law enforcement was being encouraged to be “vigilant and prepared” for Independence Day celebrations.”

“We will also adjust security measures, seen and unseen, as necessary to protect the American people,’’ Johnson said. “We continue to encourage all Americans to attend public events and celebrate this country during this summer season, but always remain vigilant.’’

Should you and law enforcement be worried?

Worried? No. Cautious? Yes. But then that’s standard procedure for Burlington police on the Fourth.

“I don’t anticipate any large gatherings in Burlington,” Police Chief Michael Kent told Patch. “The annual 4th of July parade will have spectators spread out over several miles. Officers assigned to traffic for the parade will be vigilant (as always) looking for anything out of the ordinary.”