By Barbara Morris
Has the realization that this nation is at war affected the lives of every reasoning individual who lives here? Have we empathized fully with those who have been torn away from their loved ones and their homes through no fault of their own?
Please think about it, because we are, indeed, a nation at war and each of us may be among those on the front lines.
This new kind of war finds enemies popping up like mushrooms — unexpected and in spots where they should not be. We are being called upon to increase our awareness, to be prepared for some unexpected emergency situation and to keep our wits about us as we try to live our lives in some semblance of normalcy.
The suggestion is,therefore “don’t fiddle as Rome burns!” Use your time and expertise in some constructive way and try to realize that in war and on the front lines, survival is the result of each individual being supportive of the whole.
Faced with emergency situations, you will reduce your chances of success if you panic. Try to learn as much as possible about the ways you may be able to protect your family and yourself. Be aware of your surroundings and of unusual changes. Trust your instincts.
If you see something or someone that seems suspicious, try to write down as many distinguishing details as possible and report it to the appropriate authorities. They will investigate. Remember, every criminal (including domestic and international terrorists), fears good neighbors — those who watch out for the family next door, across the street or on another block.
For some time, the New York Police Department has invited participation in such programs as Police Auxiliary Civilian Patrols, Block Watchers, Drug Busters and the Citizens’ Police Academy, all of which provide training that will increase your awareness and ability to contribute positively to law-enforcement efforts. It’s not all hard work. It’s not all dangerous. It is very interesting. You will be able to meet some great people you may otherwise not have known. You will be doing your part to make things nicer and safer for everyone.
We don’t want to forget the young folks, either. There are lots of ways they can participate. The NYPD has the Law Explorer Program, Youth Police Academy, Summer Youth Academy, the DARE and GREAT programs, as well as the Police Cadet Program. Each of these programs helps build confidence, knowledge, self-esteem and value to your family and community. Scouting, which is part of the Law Explorers Program, has been well-respected as training for responsibility for many years. As the saying goes, “Don’t just stand there. Do something.” And have fun doing it!
I was inspired to write this after hearing Lt. John Rowland speak at the Citizens’ Police Academy Alumni Association Meeting on June 24. Rowland is working with the Counter Terrorism Unit. The horror of Sept. 11 made him lose his faith in humanity until he saw how the people in this country united without regard to race, religion, ethnic background or any other specifics previously thought to separate one from the other.
Most unfortunately, only months later, there are those trying once again to separate us as the terrorists did on Sept. 11. They wanted “our house to be divided so that it could no longer stand.” Please do not be part of that because in this war if a part loses, we all lose.
If you have some kind of facility that you feel may be at risk, consider requesting one of the seven Risk Assessment Teams in the city to do a survey. You may do so by calling 615-7503. They will send you a Risk Assessment Survey to be filled out and returned. Remember that surveys may also be requested of your precinct’s Crime Prevention officer.
Learn about the U.S. Government’s Program, the Civilian Emergency Response Team. Don’t become paranoid, but do be prepared. Have available: bottled water, vital medications, working flashlights, dust masks for family members and a working battery-operated radio and telephone. Educate children, but not in an alarming manner. If you would like to have someone speak to your group about antiterrorism, call 615-7093. The Counter Terrorism Hotline is 1-888-NYC-SAFE. Think of this country as your best friend. It is!
