What the FBI Terror Alert for July 4 Really Means

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.’’

New York State Police are aware that there is a heightened terror alert and have taken appropriate steps in response. “ We will be monitoring the situation throughout the weekend,” a spokeswoman said.

Putnam County Sheriff Donald B. Smith said the Sheriff’s Office will be coordinating with other law enforcement agencies throughout Putnam and Westchester Counties to guard against any potential acts of terrorism during the Fourth of July holiday weekend.

Smith stressed that the stepped-up actions by law enforcers around the upcoming holiday are just precautionary, and are not in response to any specific reported threats of terrorism. The actions are part of “Operation Safeguard”, a regularly planned part of a counter-terrorism strategy of police agencies within Counter Terrorism Zone 3, which encompasses Putnam and Westchester Counties.

Chief Greg Austin, the chairman of NYS CTZ-3 and head of the Rye Brook Police Department, said since 2004, the goal of Operation Safeguard has been to educate, promote and remind citizens that the threat of terrorism is ongoing and continued vigilance by the public, business sectors and law enforcement is essential for the public’s safety.

“Law enforcement agencies in CTZ-3 will be conducting periodic security checks of religious facilities, train stations, commuter parking lots, bus routes, shopping malls, and public parks where holiday events may be held; beginning on Friday, July 3 and ending on Sunday evening, July 5,” he said in a statement.

As a result, a community event like a parade will 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 will be undercover officers in the crowd, in the parade, and others in places you might never think of looking.

“With each day we learn of new tools and tactics that individuals who intend to impair our way of life may use to advance their plans,” Austin said. “As you celebrate the holidays, be mindful of behavior that does not match the usual pattern of activity found within our daily lives. “IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING.”

PHOTO/Patch file photo