Terrorism
Terrorism in America, Today
The Department of Homeland Security continues to face a diverse and challenging environment of potential threats. These threats include those posed by individuals and/or small groups engaged in violence, including domestic violent extremists and those inspired or motivated by foreign terrorists and other malign foreign influences.
Foreign terrorist organizations and domestic violent extremists continue to attempt to inspire potential followers to conduct attacks in the United States, including by exploiting recent events in Afghanistan.
Domestic & International Attacks
Domestically, these attacks could occur through a variety of different methods including infrastructure attacks like drinking water tanks or electric power generating stations, or through large gathering and popular locations. Internationally, terrorism attacks have taken place at coffee shops and nightclubs as well as subways and government buildings.
Orange County residents can best cope with potential terrorism and other crisis situations by preparing in advance. Preparedness begins with each individual and extends to their families, friends and co-workers. While there is no way to predict terrorism, or where you will be if it happens, advance planning will help protect you and your loved ones.
National See Something, Say Something® Campaign
In July 2010, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security launched a national "If You See Something, Say Something™" public awareness campaign. This is a simple and effective program to raise public awareness of indicators of terrorism and violent crime, and to emphasize the importance of reporting suspicious activity to the proper state and local law enforcement authorities. Homeland security begins with hometown security, where an alert public that practices common sense can play a critical role in keeping our community safe.
Local Resources for Preparing Against a Terrorist Attack:
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Get detailed information on how to prepare against terrorism at the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
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Download free publications at the Department of Homeland Security.
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Check out a guide on bioterrorism emergency preparedness from the Centers for Disease Control and Protection (CDC).
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Learn more about local terrorism prevention resources at the Orange County Intelligence Assessment Center.