The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) needs a few good eyes and ears to help the agency in its battle with terrorism. "We can't do this alone," said J P Riordan of the Houston TX FBI office. Riordan briefed a group attending the Cooperative Hazardous Materials Education (COHMED) training meeting January 14 in Houston.
She urged company managers to encourage their employees to report any suspicious behavior they think might be related to terrorism, but pointed out that not all terrorists come from the Middle East. There are US residents who are members of certain protest groups that are just as dangerous, she said.
Some people may hesitate to contact the FBI, fearing their information is trite, but she said the FBI takes all reports seriously. In addition, she suggested that company hazmat supervisors touch base with the FBI in order to become familiar with the people in the field office. Then, should the company suffer a terrorist act, managers would know immediately who to contact. She noted that the FBI has top law enforcement authority in terrorism-related incidents.
"Things that prior to 9-1-1 we wouldn't give a thought to--we have to give a thought to now," she said.