Editor's Note: Fireworks and Security

By now, July Fourth celebrations are complete and Americans are back to work full force. How effective was our urban area security? Other than what might be considered the usual holiday accidents and fireworks, nothing major happened that we know of.

Now is not the time to let you guard down.

Because of effective urban security, Americans celebrated Independence Day in comfort; however there was heightened security centered around attempted car bombings in Britain. Security was increased on the Washington Mall in our nation’s capitol.

Urban security in the capitol included hundreds of emergency responders from various local agencies, as well as a police helicopter to help monitor crowds. Officers also were urged to be alert for vehicles that looked suspicious, which included vehicles with protruding wires or an unusual smell.

Last and certainly not least, the Transportation Security Administration took part in the July Fourth festivities as armed officers turn up with dogs working in airports, subways and bus stops in an effort to ensure that mass transit sites over the holiday were protected.

While urban security takes into account cameras, monitoring and numerous high-tech devices strategically located in any given city, the real work can and should be performed by you and me. Be aware of your surroundings and made a note of what fits and what doesn’t. When something doesn’t fit, let the proper authorities know.

About the Author

Ralph C. Jensen is the Publisher/Editor in chief of Security Today magazine.

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