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SALT LAKE CITY -- Homeland Security Secretary, Janet Napolitano, Friday urged Americans to be "vigilant" in reporting any suspicious activity.
Two days before the 10th anniversary of the attacks on 9/11, Napolitano said federal authorities are working with local and state law enforcements officials to implement "seen and unseen" measures to mitigate any danger. But many may be confused with what these new measure may mean.
On a typical weekend there are several public events going on, and this weekend is no different. The Dew Tour, the Greek Festival and the Utah Symphony season opener are all within a few blocks in downtown Salt Lake City. Additionally, the Utah State Fair and football games only add to the several public events.
I don't think I'm that worried about it. I think we're pretty safe. We haven't had any terrible incidents since 9/11.
–Nate Gardner
But are we now more vigilant when attending these events?
Fans filed into the Dew Tour with security measures put in place. The security changes made over the last decade have now just become a part of reality.
"I don't think I'm that worried about it," said Layton resident Nate Gardner, who attended Friday's Dew Tour. "I think we're pretty safe. We haven't had any terrible incidents since 9/11."
But Gardner said he's more alert in public places.
"We all just pay more attention than we used to than ten years ago," he said.
Protecting the United States is a "shared responsibility," which is a message Napolitano stressed Friday.
"For the average person, it means, watch what you're looking at," said Dwayne Baird of the Utah Department of Public Safety. Baird said if we don't know exactly what we're looking for, we just might spot something that matters.
For the average person, it means, watch what you're looking at.
–Dwayne Baird
"When you see something, say something," he said. "In other words, we all have a gut feeling about things that don't seem to be quite right. If you see something like that, tell someone."
Baird said the police take those types of calls seriously. And many of us, like the Geigle brothers, should accept the shared responsibility.
"The way we see people, the way we do things, it's definitely changing," said Max Geigle.
But does that make us too suspicious of each other?
"There is suspicion, but I think it has helped," Geigle said. "You never know what's going to happen."
"I'm from Chicago, and so all the shootings that happen, you're always keeping an eye out," said Josh Geigle. "Plus, it's definitely good if you see something going on, you want to run over and help."
Baird said local law enforcement is working intelligence tips the same way it has the last ten years, sharing intelligence information locally and with federal agencies.
Email: jboal@ksl.com
