OBSERVE AND REPORT SYSTEM SECURITY WEAKNESSES
You are the eyes and ears of your organization. Cultivate a sense about what is ordinary and extraordinary in your operating environment. Many communities throughout the country have implemented a Neighborhood Watch program. The concept is that residents in the neighborhood are much more familiar with the area than anyone else. This effort does not replace traditional police departments, it simply extends their reach through the eyes and ears of the residents. This program extends that concept to be used in the work environment by recognizing the critical role employees play in enhancing but NOT replacing other security efforts. You know your environment, you know your surroundings; therefore, you know best when something just does not seem right.
Aside being the eyes and ears (observing), you need to be the mouth (reporting) as well. Noticing something without follow-up or reporting will not help avoid or prevent an incident. YOU need to report these observations to your supervisor, Security or other appropriate personnel.
FOLLOW PROCEDURES
Policies and procedures are established and enforced for a reason. The use of uniforms, identification tags or badges and other systems is to reduce the likelihood that someone unauthorized will gain access to restricted areas or operations. Many times, agencies become very vulnerable by relaxing the enforcement of their policies. This enforcement responsibility lies with all employees. If an unidentified or unfamiliar person is observed in or around the facilities and vehicles, that person should be questioned or reported. Similarly, if unattended objects or packages are out of place, they should be identified or reported.
PRACTICE GOOD HOUSEKEEPING
Good housekeeping means keeping a clean and organized environment where materials and items are stored appropriately. It enhances the overall security and safety of a system by:
- Making it easier to locate unusual objects or items that are out of place
- Making it tougher for a terrorist to hide something
- Aiding First Responders by making it easier to search for suspected devices
- Enabling quicker rescue efforts
- Facilitating recovery from an incident
SECURITY SWEEPS
Incorporate into your daily routine spot checks of vehicles and facilities for suspicious packages, devices and substances. These sweeps will enable you to monitor potentially vulnerable areas and help prevent threats and incidents.
