What the FBI Terror Alert for Fourth of July Really Means

Patch file photo

Mark Schieldrop (Patch Staff) contributed to this story

Over the past few days, you’ve probably seen a headline or caught a news report about the recent bulletin from the Federal Bureau of Investigation about terror threats coinciding with the July 4 holiday.

The FBI is on high alert and is urging everyone to stay vigilant, but for an average citizen thinking about going to a fireworks show or watching a parade, what does this really mean? Should you be worried?

In short, no. But cautious? Yes.

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.’’

Sudbury police, like many other departments, are hesitant to disclose specific details as it might allow someone to circumvent their efforts. Sudbury’s Chief Scott Nix said there are certain precautions, particularly because the town has its annual parade.

“We cooperate with intelligence agencies to include the Massachusetts State Police Fusion Center to identify any specific threats relative to our events but we do take additional precautions than we had years ago to include additional manpower, “ said Chief Nix. “It is extremely unfortunate the circumstances are such that it threatens the safety of residents while celebrating our independence but we would be remiss in our duties to not continually assess how to best protect our community.”

The most recent FBI alert is one of those “general concerns,” but that doesn’t mean that law enforcement in your city or town isn’t taking extra precautions.

As a result, a community event like a parade might have a strong police presence. But the tools police use these days might be invisible to the general public.

You might see police conducting K-9 sweeps to check garbage bins and parade viewing stands. There may be undercover officers in the crowd, in the parade, and others in places you might never think of looking.