Antiterrorism refers to the measures Soldiers take BEFORE a terrorist strike occurs.  These measures either prevent an attack from occurring or lesson the effects of an attack should it occur.  Soldiers should always employ simple, passive antiterrorism measures just as they should always employ simple, passive security measures.  Although it is not always possible to totally negate the possibility of a terrorist attack, remember that your goal is to foil the terrorist’s plans before they occur or at least make it very hard for them.

 

Terrorism is a violent act or threat of violence made for ideological reasons.  These reasons may be political, religious, or cultural, and can sometimes be difficult to discern. 

 

Terrorists prepare and conduct their violent attacks through a predictable series of steps.  Through vigilance, you might be able to recognize preparations for an attack before it is executed.  Be alert to unusual behavior that may indicate intelligence gathering, covert surveillance, collecting materials for attack, or dry runs and rehearsals.  For example:

 

· Taking photos or videos of potential targets.

· Writing notes or sketching details about a possible target.

· Showing abnormal attention to details of routine activities and security measures.

· Using false identification.

· Cash purchase of items normally bought on credit.

· Purchasing large quantities of items that could be used as part of an attack (e.g., chemicals or cell phones).

 

When flying, consider the possibility of a hijacking.  The least accessible seat selection is a window seat in the midsection of an aircraft.  A person in the aisle would have difficulty reaching a passenger seated in a window seat.  Also, during an incident a hijacker is likely to stand at the front or rear of the aircraft to control the passengers.  Seats in the middle of the compartment are least exposed.  Since you may not be able to choose your seat, you should be aware of your vulnerability in the event of an incident.   You should always be alert for suspicious activities by other passengers.

 

When abroad, you should wear casual, conservative clothing, preferably clothing common to the business class of the region, and bring civilian baggage that looks unremarkable.  To reduce the likelihood of being a target by association, try not to stand out among other travelers.  Plan ahead and be anonymous. 

 

When renting a car, you should perform a security inspection.  Familiarize yourself with the car so in later inspections you can recognize tampering.  Thoroughly examine the car from the outside in.  Start with a visual inspection of the exterior without touching it, to include the undercarriage and wheel wells, for any evidence of tampering.  Before opening the doors, look into the interior and then open every compartment of the car to look for anything that does not belong.  You should do this each time you return to your car when it has been parked in an unsecured location.

 

When considering using a taxi, you should choose to look for the distinctive markings of a legitimate taxi company (logos, color, vehicle type).   The best decision is to randomly choose a taxi belonging to a legitimate company.  Never accept transportation in an unofficial or "scab" taxi.  Look for a taxi license inside and try to match the photo to the driver.  Try to use multiple taxi companies during your trip to reduce your predictability.  Conduct some Internet research to familiarize yourself with the dangers associated with public transportation in transit areas prior to your mission.

 

Passengers on public busses, trains and subways may be targets of both criminal and terrorist activities.  Basic antiterrorism practices can minimize exposure and reduce your chance of being singled out for attack.  

 

· Avoid high risk situations.  Isle seats are safer on trains and busses than windows.

· Check travelers' tips from U.S. Consular Offices, travel agencies and websites to avoid high risk areas, times, and modes of travel.

· Know your plan and move promptly from one secure location to the next.  Make note of emergency exits.

· Travel in a group and remain in secure, well-lit public areas.

· Reduce your chance of being singled out.

· For daily commutes, change times and routes of your travel to reduce predictability.

· Accept food and drink only from authorized vendors.  Criminals have drugged travelers to reduce resistance to exploitation.

· On sleeper trains, lock your compartment door.  If the door does not have a lock, block it with a suitcase or secure it with a belt.  If you travel with others, consider sleeping in shifts.

· Keep a window cracked for fresh air.  Criminals have used gas to overcome passengers.

· Report any suspicious activity and abandoned packages, especially bags left on board by departing passengers.

 

Soldiers should be aware of the threat posed by Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).  IEDs consist of an explosive material, a trigger mechanism such as a cell phone or timer, and an enclosure to conceal the real purpose of the device.  They are often disguised as items encountered in everyday life and terrorists use them to target unsuspecting civilians, service members, and first responders.  As the local terrorist threat increases, the possibility of encountering an IED grows.  Possible indications of IEDs include:

 

· Unattended items that could conceal a bomb in crowded public areas (suitcase, briefcase, flower planter, trash can, dead animal, parked cars).

· Items with noticeable batteries, wires, cables and strings.

· Recent construction or repair activity in areas typically neglected (potholes, roadside mounds, buildings).

· Disturbed earth or depressions in the ground.

· An unexplained decrease in local activity in normally busy areas could indicate locals have heard threat rumors.

· Persons dressed in unseasonably warm clothing or behaving nervously could be concealing a bomb.

· Warnings from the local civilian population.

 

If you notice you are being followed while abroad, drive to a safe, familiar public location.  If you are familiar with the city you should drive to a police station, but in unfamiliar surroundings stick with the places and routes you know such as your hotel.  Stay a car length behind other vehicles when stopped to avoid being boxed-in and avoid streets or alleys where you might become trapped.  Drive defensively to avoid an accident.

 

When choosing a room in a hotel, any room above the 3rd floor with no balcony that opens onto the interior of the hotel is better because outside intruders are less likely to have unsupervised access.  A room away from the street may be less exposed to a street-level bomb blast.  Also, a fire truck ladder can reach up to the 10th floor or you may escape through a nearby fire exit in the event of an emergency.  When you leave your room, you should give the appearance of an occupied room and avoid surveillance.  You can do this by leaving the TV on, posting a do-not-disturb sign, and requesting a wakeup call.  It will be easier to detect tampering or intrusion if you leave your belongings straightened. 

 

When eating out, request an indoor table since it is more private and less exposed to potential dangers.  Exercise caution to protect your identity, nationality and hotel location from other restaurant patrons you might encounter.  Also, be aware that criminals or terrorists may use agents of the opposite sex to employ tactics of seduction to gain access, influence, or information.

 

 

The American Homeland Security threat levels:

 

In March 2002, the Homeland Security Advisory System was created to better inform the American public of changes in the threat of domestic terrorism.  This five-level color code system is adjusted at both national and local levels based on intelligence and law enforcement information.  The Homeland Security Advisory System applies only to the United States and its territories. 

 

The first DHS Threat Level, "Green," is declared when there is a low risk of terrorist attacks.  At this level, DHS recommends you take the following actions:

 

· Develop a family emergency plan, share it with family and friends, and practice the plan.  You can visit www.Ready.gov for help creating a plan.

· Create an "Emergency Supply Kit" for your household.

· Be informed. Visit www.Ready.gov or call 1-800-BE-READY to obtain a copy of "Preparing Makes Sense, Get Ready Now."

· Know how to shelter-in-place and turn off utilities (power, gas, and water) to your home.

 

The second DHS Threat Level, "Blue" or "Guarded Risk," is declared when there is a general risk of terrorist attacks.  At this level, DHS recommends you take the following actions:

 

· Complete recommended steps at level green.

· Review stored disaster supplies and replace items that are outdated.

· Be alert to suspicious activity and report it to proper authorities.

 

The third DHS Threat Level, "Yellow" or "Elevated Risk," is declared when there is a significant risk of terrorist attacks.  At this level, DHS recommends you take the following actions:

 

· Complete recommended steps at levels green and blue.

· Ensure disaster supply kit is stocked and ready.

· Check telephone numbers in family emergency plan and update as necessary.

· Develop alternate routes to/from work or school and practice them.

· Continue to be alert for suspicious activity and report it to authorities.

 

The fourth DHS Threat Level, "Orange" or "High Risk" is declared when there is a high risk of terrorist attacks.  At this level, DHS recommends you take the following actions:

 

· Complete recommended steps at lower levels.

· Exercise caution when traveling, pay attention to travel advisories.

· Review your family emergency plan and make sure all family members know what to do.

· Be Patient.  Expect some delays, baggage searches and restrictions at public buildings.

· Check on neighbors or others that might need assistance in an emergency.

 

The final DHS Threat Level, "Red" or "Severe Risk," is declared when there is a severe risk of terrorist attacks.  At this level, DHS recommends you take the following actions:

 

· Complete all recommended actions at lower levels.

· Listen to local emergency management officials.

· Stay tuned to TV or radio for current information/instructions.

· Be prepared to shelter-in-place or evacuate, as instructed.

· Expect traffic delays and restrictions.

· Provide volunteer services only as requested.

· Contact your school/business to determine status of the workday.

Antiterrorism Measures