Since 2004, the goal of Operation Safeguard is to educate, promote and remind citizens that the threat of terrorism is ongoing and continued vigilance by the public, business sectors and law enforcement is essential for the public’s safety.

New York State is divided into sixteen counter-terrorism zones, Westchester and Putnam Counties are part of Counter-Terrorism Zone 3 (CTZ-3).

During the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, law enforcement agencies in CTZ-3, will be conducting periodic security checks of religious facilities, train stations, commuter parking lots, bus routes, shopping malls, and public parks where holiday events may be held.

Therefore, the public may notice more police officers on patrol during the holiday weekend. This increased uniform presence is NOT because there is a renewed threat to your safety; it is simply part of our counter-terrorism strategy of continued vigilance.

With each day, we learn of new tools and tactics that individuals who intend to impair our way of life may use to advance their plans. As you celebrate this holiday season, be mindful of behavior that does not match the usual pattern of activity found within our daily lives. “IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING”.

Remember, if you observe suspicious activity:

• DO NOT CONFRONT THE INDIVIDUAL(S)
• DO NOT REVEAL YOUR SUSPICIONS TO THE INDIVIDUAL(S)
• DO RECORD AS MANY DETAILS AS POSSIBLE
• DO NOTIFY LOCAL POLICE AGENCIES BY CALLING 911 OR THEIR DIRECT NUMBER OR CALL THE SAFE NYS TIPLINE AT 1-866-SAFE– NYS (1-866-723-3697).