Force Protection, Antiterrorism- General Security

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Scott Hellinger
  • 4th Fighter Wing Antiterrorism Office
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  While serving overseas or state side, antiterrorism and force protection actions are something each servicemember must always be mindful of.

Below are a number of precautions and proactive actions.

General precautions:
  • Keep a low profile. Your dress, conduct and mannerisms should not attract attention. Make an effort to blend into the local environment. Avoid publicity and do not go out in large groups. Stay away from civil disturbances and demonstrations.
  • Be unpredictable. Vary daily routines, such as your route to and from work and the time you leave and return home. Vary the way you dress. Do not exercise at the same time and place each day. Never exercise alone, on deserted streets or country roads. Let people close to you know where you are going, what you will be doing and when you should be back.
  • Be alert for anything suspicious or out of place. Immediately report suspicious incidents to Security Forces or law enforcement agencies. Instruct your family and associates not to provide strangers with information about you and your family.
  • Avoid giving unnecessary personal details to anyone unless his or her identity can be verified.
  • Report all suspicious persons loitering near your office or in unauthorized areas. Attempt to provide a complete description of the person and/or vehicle to police or security personnel. Consider taking a photograph of the person if it can be done discreetly.
  • Advise associates or family members of your destination and anticipated time of arrival when leaving office or home.
  • Do not open doors to strangers and report unsolicited contacts to authorities. Refuse to meet with strangers outside your workplace.
  • Pre-program your cell phones or memorize key phone numbers - office, home, police, security, etc.
  • Be cautious about giving out information regarding family travel plans or security measures and procedures.
  • Know your neighborhood and neighbors.
  • Keep all outside doors and accessible windows closed and locked.
  • Keep car and house keys separate and maintain accountability.
  • Examine mail for suspicious letters or parcels.
  • Familiarize children with police and fire stations and teach them emergency procedures and telephone numbers.
  • Advise children to avoid isolated areas, to travel and play in groups, never talk to or go anywhere with strangers and to keep family members informed of their whereabouts.
  • When making travel reservations do not use rank or position and if possible use military air.
  • When in a restaurant, locate emergency exits upon entering, choose a table with greatest field of view, avoid business conversation near other patrons, and do not reveal after-dinner plans.
  • Stress the importance of security and the seriousness of the threat to the whole family.
  • Be alert to your surroundings and report suspicious personnel or activities to local authorities.
  • Remember to trust your instincts!
These tips and other important information are located in Chairman of the Joint Chief of Staff Guide 5260, Antiterrorism Personal Protection Guide: A Self-Help Guide to Antiterrorism, which can be obtained by contacting your Unit Antiterrorism Representative or the 4th Fighter Wing Force Protection Office.

Remember, antiterrorism and force protection is everyone's responsibility.

For more information, contact the 4th FW antiterrorism officer, Master Sgt. Scott Hellinger, at 919-722-0709.

(Editor's note: This article is part of a series designed to instill Force Protection and Antiterrorism awareness into every Airman's mind.)