Catawba County News

If You See Something, Say Something®

Published: October 31, 2022

Lately our world seems scary and increasingly violent but there is something you can do to play a role in keeping our communities safe. It’s easy to be distracted during our daily routines such as going to work, school, or the grocery store, but as you’re going about your day, if you see something that doesn’t seem quite right, say something.

Suspicious activity is any observed behavior that may indicate pre-operational planning associated with terrorism or terrorism-related crime. Some activities could be innocent, but trained law enforcement officials can determine whether the behavior warrants further action. 

Recognize some of the signs:

SURVEILLANCE A prolonged interest in or taking pictures/videos of personnel, facilities, security features, or infrastructure in an unusual or covert manner.

BREACH/ ATTEMPTED INTRUSION Unauthorized people trying to enter a restricted area or impersonating authorized personnel

ELICITING INFORMATION Questioning personnel beyond mere curiosity about an event, facility, or operations.

More examples can be found at the following U.S. Department of Homeland Security link signs of terrorism-related suspicious activity.

If You See Something, Say Something® call 888-NCISAAC (888-624-7222) or your local law enforcement agency. Always call 9-1-1 for an emergency situation.

Factors such as race, ethnicity, gender, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, or gender identity are not suspicious. Report only suspicious behavior and situations (e.g., someone breaking into a restricted area), rather than one’s appearance, to authorities.

“If you see something, say something® is used with permission of the NY Metropolitan Transportation Authority.”