HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- This time of year, people are rushing around making final holiday purchases, enjoying holiday parties and visiting with relatives.
While we enjoy all that the holiday season has to offer, there are those who seek to turn this joyous time into a tragic one. The following are a few thoughts and hints to keep you and your family safe throughout the season.
- Violent extremists groups, including homegrown groups, will likely continue to encourage attacks to the West. Focus areas will continue to include traditional “soft targets” such as public events or places where large numbers of people will be gathering. Pay particular attention to events on important dates that carry religious, cultural and/or national significance. If you plan to attend one of these events, consider positioning yourself and your family near an easy escape route. Be aware of your surroundings and keep in mind vehicle attacks have been on the rise due to the simplicity and effectiveness of the tactic. In addition, consider having a “rally point” in the event an incident occurs and your family becomes separated.
- For military members, refrain from drawing attention to yourself by unnecessarily wearing your uniform during non-duty activities and when traveling.
- Ensure you practice safe social media use, and be cautious as you shop online. Increased online shopping activity during the holiday season means increased attempts at phishing and other illicit techniques to bait consumers into releasing personal and financial information. I promise you, you did not win $10,000; please do not click the link saying you did.
- Packages left outside are easy targets for simple theft. Consider asking a friend to pick up packages when you are away and opt to require a signature when possible. If you find your package has been tampered with or find it suspicious (i.e., wires, ticking, etc.), get to a safe location and contact local law enforcement. Make sure you always lock your doors and windows, whether you live on or off base.
- Mother Nature can be dangerous, especially in New England. While traveling by vehicle, make sure you obey all traffic rules and regulations. Clear the snow from all roofs and anywhere it could fall off and distract you or other drivers. Make sure to give yourself at least two car lengths per every 10 miles per hour between you and other vehicles in case of black ice. Rudolph or his friends may dart out in front of vehicles as well, so be cautious of what could be nearby in the woods. For those taking flights this season, check the weather before you travel, check for cancellations and plan for unforeseen circumstances.
We all have instincts for a reason; unfortunately, we don’t listen to them often. If something does not seem right, contact your local police department or call 911.
Remaining vigilant is the key. If you see something, say something.
At Hanscom Air Force Base, report any suspicious activities to the Eagle Eyes hotline at 781-225-3937 or Security Forces at 781-225-5000.
Be smart, stay safe, take care of each other and have a wonderful holiday season.