Antiterrorism chief shares summer safety message Published July 3, 2013 By Jim Coleman Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Antiterrorism Office JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. -- The recent Boston Marathon bombing reinforced the greater threat of hostile acts on "soft targets" (locations where security procedures are limited). As the summer weather encourages us to travel to public places and gather together for fun activities, many of these places become potential targets for people and groups with bad intentions. We can be easily distracted by the happy times at the beach, amusement parks, picnics, restaurants, and the like, but it's important to maintain awareness of our surroundings so we can protect ourselves and the people around us. Be on the lookout for people behaving strangely or in a way that stands out compared to what everyone around them is doing. Suspicious behavior includes dressing in large coats or outer garments on warm days. Likewise, watch for objects that seem out of place, such as suitcases or stuffed animals without owners, and be alert to objects "behaving" oddly like a personal vehicle with smoke coming out of the windows. You can involve your friends and family, too; educate them on "if you see something, say something" which is already well known by most residents of major cities. Once seen or found, wherever you are, take action. If a police officer is in sight, tell them in person what you've seen. If you have to call 911, do it, but in all cases if you suspect an explosive, move away to a safe distance first. Move calmly and cautiously and encourage other people to do the same. There will always be people who want to hurt us, and they'll continue to look for places where it's the easiest for them. We can defeat their attempts by being aware, helping others to be aware, and reacting smartly when our awareness finds a problem.