Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department

The potential threats of terrorism can be loosely categorized as Weapons of Mass Destruction (bombings, and/or the use of biological, chemical or radiological agents) with the ultimate goals of disrupting the infrastructure and/or the economy and instilling fear in the targeted community. Certain potential targets lend themselves towards the accomplishment of these goals. They include, for example, atomic energy and other public utility facilities, international airports and other transportation systems, major international events and high-profile landmarks. Like all cities in America, there are potential targets in the greater Las Vegas area. Like all cities in America, we must all remain vigilant. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, along with countless federal, state and local government agencies, are working hard every day to prevent terrorism. There are some things you can do, too:

Know the routines: Be alert as you go about your daily business. Learn the normal routines of your community and workplace. Understanding these routines will help you to spot anything out of place.
Be aware: Get to know your neighbors. Be on the lookout for suspicious activities such as unusual conduct in your neighborhood, workplace or while traveling.
Take what you hear seriously: If you hear or know of someone who has bragged or talked about plans to harm citizens or who claim membership in a terrorist organization, take it seriously and immediately report it to law enforcement.

Opening Mail and Packages

Teach family, friends and co-workers to be aware when opening mail & packages

Signs of Suspicious Mail and Packages:

Unexpected or from someone you do not know.
Not addressed to a specific person.
Addressed to someone no longer at the address.
Handwritten with either no or an unreadable return address.
Lopsided or lumpy.
Has wires or unusual contents that protrude from the package.
Postmarked city does not match return address.
Unusual contents that can be felt through the package.
Marked with restrictive endorsement like "personal" or "confidential".
Excessive postage.
Common words are misspelled.
Incorrect titles or titles without names.
Soiled or stained packages.
Powdery substance felt or seen.
Marked with threatening language.
Strong odor.
Excessive weight.
Ticking sound.

Bomb Threats

If you receive a bomb threat:

Get as much information from the caller as possible.
Keep the caller on the line and write down everything that is said.
Note anything unique about the caller's voice (accent, lisp, etc.).
Notify the police and the building manager.

If you locate a suspicious package or device:

Do not touch it.
Do not use portable phones nearby.
Clear the area and notify the police immediately.
Provide a description of the package or device.
On evacuating, stand clear of windows and other potential hazards.

International Terrorism

Involves violent acts or acts dangerous to human life that cross international boundaries and are a violation of the criminal laws of the U.S. The goal is to intimidate or coerce the civilian population, influence the policy of a
government, or affect the conduct of a government.

Domestic Terrorism

Is the unlawful use, or threatened use, of violence by a group or individual based and operating entirely within the U.S. The goal is to intimidate or coerce a government or the civilian population to further political or social objectives.

Threats

A real or perceived act or indication of a future act, in a manner that would tend to cause harm to people, property or disrupt essential services. The goal is to instill fear, anxiety and distrust.

What should you do with suspicious mail?

Do not shake, sniff, touch, taste or look closely at it or contents may be spilled.
Do not carry it, show it to others, or allow others to touch.
If it is already in your hands when you become suspicious, put it down on a stable surface and do not handle.
Alert others in the area and leave the area.
Close any doors and prevent others from entering the area.
If possible, shut off the ventilation.
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

Notify law enforcement immediately!!

After reporting a bomb threat-you may be asked to conduct a cursory check of your building. Nobody is more familiar with your place of business than you and your fellow employees. Because of your familiarity, you are likely to spot anything suspicious even faster than the police.