Terrorism Awareness

Terrorists are trained to blend in and assimilate to their surroundings. Most terrorist acts are well organized and well planned. Terrorists will conduct training, surveillance and dry runs prior to the commission of a terrorist act. They like to strike at government and civilian targets in an effort to instill fear.

Ironically, though the terrorist acts are an attempt to instill fear in you, it is you that the terrorist fears most. The security of our county depends greatly on resident involvement. No law enforcement agency can effectively protect life and property without the support and cooperation of the residents it serves. The Burke County Sheriff's Office need your help to counter terrorism. We need you to be our eyes and ears.

Reports can be made any time by dialing 9-1-1.

What to Do: To assist the Burke County Sheriff's Office, please:

• Remain alert and be aware of everyday activities in your neighborhood
• Encourage the involvement of family, friends, and neighbors
• Assume responsibility to observe and report activities that appear out of place or unusual
• If you become aware of suspicious activity, record as many details as possible and notify the proper authorities

What Not to Do: For your own safety, please do not:

• Take direct action
• Confront the individual
• Reveal your suspicions

Suspicious Activity

If you become aware of suspicious activity, please:

• Record as many details as is possible
• Notify the appropriate authorities as soon as possible

Event Descriptions

If you happen to notice possible terrorist activity when reporting the event, please describe the following:

• Who did I observe?
• What specifically did I see?
• Where did I observe the suspicious behavior?
• When did I observe the suspicious behavior?
• Why do I think the behavior is suspicious?

Improving Observation Skills

The following are ways to improve your observation skills:

• Employ good listening skills
• Do not let personal feelings interfere with the incident
• Look at the entire situation before making a judgment
• Watch for non-verbal communication signs
• Use feedback to obtain and verify information or observations
• Observe and report
• Do not become personally involved

Reporting Suspicious Activities

Please report suspicious activities by calling 9-1-1.