Governor Rell, State DOT, DEMHS Launch Statewide Public Awareness Campaign

Press Release

Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced the start of an aggressive, statewide security awareness campaign urging residents -- including users of public transportation -- to be alert and prepared to report suspicious activity.

The "If You See Something, Say Something" campaign aims to empower people to monitor their own environment for suspicious objects or behavior on trains or buses, stations and other public places. The state Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security operates a 24-hour homeland security tip line, 1 (866) HLS-TIPS.

"It is simple -- but it is so effective," Governor Rell said during a kickoff news conference at Hartford's Union Station. "If you use public transportation, always be aware of your surroundings. Be on the lookout for suspicious objects or behavior on trains and buses or at stations like this one. You know your neighborhoods, your schools and your community better than anyone else -- you know when something isn't right.

"And when you see something -- say something," the Governor said. "It's not about starting a panic -- nobody is suggesting that. But find a uniformed officer or an official of the transit system such as a conductor or other employee. Tell them what you saw and why it struck you as odd. It's as simple as that."

The campaign is being conducted by the state Departments of Transportation and Emergency Management and Homeland Security and funded through the federal Transit Security Grant Program.

"The strength of this campaign is its partnership with the public," said DOT Commissioner Jeffrey A. Parker. "It is our hope that this campaign will remind residents to be alert and act when they see something suspicious on public transportation or anywhere else in their community."

"The Times Square attempted bombing is a recent reminder that terrorism can strike very close to home," said DEMHS Commissioner Peter J. Boynton. "What this incident also showed is that the public is an important partner in emergency management and homeland security. I want all of our 3.4 million residents to know that they are a vital part of our team and will continue to play an integral role."

The campaign includes television, radio, online, print, billboards and more. The goal is to encourage as many Connecticut residents as possible to maintain awareness and remind them to remain vigilant.

For more information, visit: www.keepctsafe.org .

Source