Hello everyone... this is a continuation of the Surveillance blog posted in Jan '09.
EQUIPMENT
Equipment needed for the job should be prepared with a checklist. The checklist should include, still camera, video camera, file, map, flashlight, pad and pencil, toilet facility (applies to males), window covers, binoculars and two way radios, at least one should be portable. Hats, sunglasses and a change of clothes are also recommended.
SURVEILLANCE VEHICLE
Advice on which vehicle is the perfect surveillance vehicle is plentiful. There are different opinions for each investigator you may talk with. Some recommendations that the author has received over the years are, a white truck, because white blends in and is unnoticeable or a van that is equipped with all the latest equipment. I have a friend that uses a red Cadillac and does well. The bottom line is that the vehicle no matter what color, style or type will not be of any use if the target notices any unusual vehicle in the area. The vehicle used is of little importance if the investigator uses the techniques and cautions outlined in this manual. If the vehicle is suspected then the investigator has to change vehicle in order to continue the surveillance in another location.
PREPARE TO FOLLOW
If the location is in close proximity to the investigative office, a route recon should be conducted a couple of days prior to starting the surveillance is recommended. This may not be possible in all surveillance cases. The investigator will have to make on the spot surveillance decisions as to what is the best location for parking and blending on most of the jobs. The purpose of the route recon is to log any vehicles for identification later and positive identification of the target’s address and residence at the target’s address. The investigators should log either by micro recorder or by physical notes any activity seen at the time of the recon. The investigator should make notes on any items that would indicate leisure activity or work activity along with a description of the house and its location within the residential block. The investigator should make notes of the surrounding neighbors and any animals seen in the neighborhood. The investigator should note all possible surveillance locations including the rear and sides of the residence and if one vehicle will do the job. The investigator should make note of all possible avenues that the target might take when leaving the location. The investigator should check all parallel routes in order to start the surveillance with knowledge of the immediate area.
BEGINNING THE SURVEILLANCE
The question always arises as to whether or not the investigator should notify the police when ever conducting surveillance. This is a question that has a different answer for different circumstances. My recommendation is that the investigator must do what they feel is necessary to protect their surveillance location. There is no law that I know of in any state that requires notification of the police. It's your responsibility to learn and abide by the laws and policies of the Law Enforcement agencies in your area. The question the investigator should ask themselves on some surveillance jobs after assessing the surrounding area is “ how much trouble do I want to bring upon myself and my surveillance?” The investigator should determine from the neighborhood if the threat of being exposed by police exist. The decision to call in and notify the police so they won’t respond to a call from a neighbor may be a good one and then again it may not.
Golden rule number one is; “ Never take your eyes off of the target.”
My recommendation for the beginning location of any surveillance is to pick the farthest location from the target’s location that will allow the investigator to see movement of any vehicles coming or going. When the surveillance is to be conducted in a residential neighborhood it is a good idea to park with the rising sun or setting sun and in the shade so the vehicle won’t be easy to see. When it is possible, blend into a business parking lot and with other vehicles and place shades over in the windshield to make it appear that the vehicle is empty. Sometimes it becomes necessary to view at the target’s location backwards in order to blend into the neighborhood. Watching in the rear view mirror while the investigators vehicle is pointed in the opposite direction is a bit more difficult because it narrows the field of vision but is just as effective. Humans are creatures of habit. Once the direction of travel of the target is established the investigator should conduct the surveillance in the opposite direction if possible. This will prevent the investigator from having to leave in a hurry to get out of the line of sight of the target and will prevent the investigator from taking their eye off of the target.
The investigator should record the license plates on any vehicle that arrives at the residence. Although it may not seem relevant at the time, the plate could be used to locate the target in the event the investigator loses sight of the target. If movement at the location is detected, the investigator should react by starting the video or moving closer to assess what the movement indicates. Either the target is getting ready to leave the location or is getting ready to start activity that might be worthy of video or moving even closer to the target. The investigator must be prepared to drive aggressively while driving defensibly. Driving aggressive may require driving across a yellow light or even a red light, making U-turns where one would normally not make U-turns, cutting though parking lots etc. Mind you that this is not a recommendation but a reality. We never will recommend that an investigator break the law in any way in the pursuit of their duties.
Golden rule number Two; “if the target sees the investigator three times the investigator is burnt.”
- end for today -
************************************************************
Brian K. Allen is a coach, trainer and entrepreneur in Arizona. For
FREE Bodyguard info, goto this site and request the FREE module:
http://www.TheBodyguardCourse.com/
************************************************************
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Amazing Bodyguard E-Book Sale!
Interested in Bodyguarding, Counter Terrorism & more?
Go to http://www.ProfessionalCourse.com and click on
the E-Book Sale link at the top of the page!
This information is a MUST for anyone interested in
these types of careers!
Go to http://www.ProfessionalCourse.com and click on
the E-Book Sale link at the top of the page!
This information is a MUST for anyone interested in
these types of careers!
Sunday, March 15, 2009
‘Above ground’ options for securing the outdoor perimeter / grounds of your client
Let’s take a look at the types of sensors you can add on the grounds, perimeter or fences:
1. Vibration (Shaker) or Inertia Sensors
2. Microwave Barriers
3. Microphonic Systems
4. Taut Wire Fence Systems
5. Fibre Optic Cable
Let’s look at each on individually:
Vibration (Shaker) Sensors
These simple devices are mounted on fences, walls & other barriers and are used primarily to detect an attack on the structure itself. The technology relies on an unstable mechanical configuration that forms part of the electrical circuit. When movement or vibration occurs, the unstable portion of the circuit moves and breaks the current flow, which produces an alarm. The technology of the devices varies and can be sensitive to different levels of vibration. The medium transmitting the vibration must be correctly selected for the specific sensor as they are best suited to different types of structures and configurations. More sophisticated sensors use piezo-electric components rather than mechanical circuits, which can be tuned to be extremely sensitive to vibration. These sensors are more durable and more resistant to tampering.
Pros: Very reliable sensors, low false alarm rate and middle place in the price range.
Cons: Must be fence mounted would be the main con. Its rather high price deters many customers, but its effectiveness offsets its high price.
Conclusion: The best money for value fence mounted configuration.
Microwave Barriers
The operation of a microwave barrier is very simple. This type of device develops an electromagnetic beam using high frequency waves that passes from a transmitter to a receiver, creating an invisible but sensitive protection wall. When the receiver detects a difference of condition within its beam (and hence a possible intrusion), begins a detailed analysis of the situation that, if Considered a real intrusion, it provides an alarm signal that can be treated in analogue or digital form.
Microphonic Systems
Microphonic based systems vary in design but each is generally based on the detection of an intruder attempting to cut or climb over a chain link fence. Usually the microphonic detection systems are installed as sensor cables attached to rigid chain link fences, however some specialized versions of these systems can also be installed as buried systems underground. Depending on the version selected, it can be sensitive to different levels of noise or vibration. The system is based on coaxial sensor cable with the controller having the ability to differentiate between signals from the cable or chain link being cut, an intruder climbing the fence, or bad weather conditions.
The systems are designed to detect and analyse incoming electronic signals received from the sensor cable, and then to generate alarms from signals which exceed preset conditions. The systems have adjustable electronics to permit installers to change the sensitivity of the alarm detectors to the suit specific environmental conditions. The tuning of the system is usually accomplished during commissioning of the detection devices.
Pros: very cheap, very simple configuration, easy to install.
Cons: some systems have a very high rate of false alarms because some of these sensors might be too sensitive.
Conclusion: If you need a fence mounted sensor and you willing to add some more money for a reliable system go with the Vibration system.
Taut Wire Fence Systems
A taut wire perimeter security system is basically an independent screen of tensioned tripwires usually mounted on a fence or wall. Alternatively, the screen can be made so thick that there is no need for a supporting chain link fence. These systems are designed to detect any physical attempt to penetrate the barrier. Taut wire systems can operate with a variety of switches or detectors that sense movement at each end of the tensioned wires.
These switches or detectors can be a simple mechanical contact, static force transducer or an electronic strain gauge. Unwanted alarms caused by animals and birds can be avoided by adjusting the sensors to ignore objects that exert small amounts of pressure on the wires. It should be noted that this type of system is vulnerable to intruders digging under the fence. A concrete footing directly below the fence is installed to prevent this type of attack.
Pros: low rate of false alarms, very reliable sensors and high rate of detection.
Cons: Very expensive, complicated to install and old technology.
Conclusion: Very good but very expensive system that uses 20-year-old technology; these days there is no reason to choose Taut wire over the other fence-mounted sensors.
Fibre Optic Cable
A fibre-optic cable can be used to detect intruders by measuring the difference in the amount of light sent through the fibre core. If the cable is disturbed, light will ‘leak’ out and the receiver unit will detect a difference in the amount of light received. The cable can be attached directly to a chain link fence or bonded into a barbed steel tape that is used to protect the tops of walls and fences. This type of barbed tape provides a good physical deterrent as well as giving an immediate alarm if the tape is cut or severely distorted.
Pros: very similar to the Microphonic system, very simple configuration, easy to install.
Cons: high rate of false alarm or no alarms at all, some sell it as buried system which function VERY bad as buried or on top of a wall.
Conclusion: Some people choose fiber optic systems only because of the price which is a very wrong decision for a security system, as a fence mounted Microphonic or Vibration sensor system would do a better job for the same price range.
************************************************************
Brian K. Allen is a coach, trainer and entrepreneur in Arizona. For
FREE Bodyguard info, goto this site and request the FREE module:
http://www.TheBodyguardCourse.com
************************************************************
1. Vibration (Shaker) or Inertia Sensors
2. Microwave Barriers
3. Microphonic Systems
4. Taut Wire Fence Systems
5. Fibre Optic Cable
Let’s look at each on individually:
Vibration (Shaker) Sensors
These simple devices are mounted on fences, walls & other barriers and are used primarily to detect an attack on the structure itself. The technology relies on an unstable mechanical configuration that forms part of the electrical circuit. When movement or vibration occurs, the unstable portion of the circuit moves and breaks the current flow, which produces an alarm. The technology of the devices varies and can be sensitive to different levels of vibration. The medium transmitting the vibration must be correctly selected for the specific sensor as they are best suited to different types of structures and configurations. More sophisticated sensors use piezo-electric components rather than mechanical circuits, which can be tuned to be extremely sensitive to vibration. These sensors are more durable and more resistant to tampering.
Pros: Very reliable sensors, low false alarm rate and middle place in the price range.
Cons: Must be fence mounted would be the main con. Its rather high price deters many customers, but its effectiveness offsets its high price.
Conclusion: The best money for value fence mounted configuration.
Microwave Barriers
The operation of a microwave barrier is very simple. This type of device develops an electromagnetic beam using high frequency waves that passes from a transmitter to a receiver, creating an invisible but sensitive protection wall. When the receiver detects a difference of condition within its beam (and hence a possible intrusion), begins a detailed analysis of the situation that, if Considered a real intrusion, it provides an alarm signal that can be treated in analogue or digital form.
Microphonic Systems
Microphonic based systems vary in design but each is generally based on the detection of an intruder attempting to cut or climb over a chain link fence. Usually the microphonic detection systems are installed as sensor cables attached to rigid chain link fences, however some specialized versions of these systems can also be installed as buried systems underground. Depending on the version selected, it can be sensitive to different levels of noise or vibration. The system is based on coaxial sensor cable with the controller having the ability to differentiate between signals from the cable or chain link being cut, an intruder climbing the fence, or bad weather conditions.
The systems are designed to detect and analyse incoming electronic signals received from the sensor cable, and then to generate alarms from signals which exceed preset conditions. The systems have adjustable electronics to permit installers to change the sensitivity of the alarm detectors to the suit specific environmental conditions. The tuning of the system is usually accomplished during commissioning of the detection devices.
Pros: very cheap, very simple configuration, easy to install.
Cons: some systems have a very high rate of false alarms because some of these sensors might be too sensitive.
Conclusion: If you need a fence mounted sensor and you willing to add some more money for a reliable system go with the Vibration system.
Taut Wire Fence Systems
A taut wire perimeter security system is basically an independent screen of tensioned tripwires usually mounted on a fence or wall. Alternatively, the screen can be made so thick that there is no need for a supporting chain link fence. These systems are designed to detect any physical attempt to penetrate the barrier. Taut wire systems can operate with a variety of switches or detectors that sense movement at each end of the tensioned wires.
These switches or detectors can be a simple mechanical contact, static force transducer or an electronic strain gauge. Unwanted alarms caused by animals and birds can be avoided by adjusting the sensors to ignore objects that exert small amounts of pressure on the wires. It should be noted that this type of system is vulnerable to intruders digging under the fence. A concrete footing directly below the fence is installed to prevent this type of attack.
Pros: low rate of false alarms, very reliable sensors and high rate of detection.
Cons: Very expensive, complicated to install and old technology.
Conclusion: Very good but very expensive system that uses 20-year-old technology; these days there is no reason to choose Taut wire over the other fence-mounted sensors.
Fibre Optic Cable
A fibre-optic cable can be used to detect intruders by measuring the difference in the amount of light sent through the fibre core. If the cable is disturbed, light will ‘leak’ out and the receiver unit will detect a difference in the amount of light received. The cable can be attached directly to a chain link fence or bonded into a barbed steel tape that is used to protect the tops of walls and fences. This type of barbed tape provides a good physical deterrent as well as giving an immediate alarm if the tape is cut or severely distorted.
Pros: very similar to the Microphonic system, very simple configuration, easy to install.
Cons: high rate of false alarm or no alarms at all, some sell it as buried system which function VERY bad as buried or on top of a wall.
Conclusion: Some people choose fiber optic systems only because of the price which is a very wrong decision for a security system, as a fence mounted Microphonic or Vibration sensor system would do a better job for the same price range.
************************************************************
Brian K. Allen is a coach, trainer and entrepreneur in Arizona. For
FREE Bodyguard info, goto this site and request the FREE module:
http://www.TheBodyguardCourse.com
************************************************************
Sunday, March 1, 2009
“Underground” options for securing the outdoor perimeter / grounds of your client
Let’s take a look at the types of sensors you can bury on the grounds:
1. Passive Magnetic Field Detection
2. E-Field Sensors
3. H-Field Sensors
Let’s look at each on individually:
Passive Magnetic Field Detection
This buried security system is based on the Magnetic Anomaly Detection principle of operation. The system uses an electromagnetic field generator powering with two wires running in parallel. Both wires run along the perimeter and are usually installed about 5 inches apart on top of a wall or about foot buried in the ground. The wires are connected to a signal processor which analyze any change in the magnetic field. This kind of buried security system sensor cable could be buried on the top of almost any kind of wall to provide a regular wall detection ability or be buried in the ground.
Pros: Very low false alarm rate, can be put on top of any wall, very high chance to detect real burglars.
Cons: Can't be installed in near high voltage line or radars and airports.
Conclusion: The best solution in the buried sensors range.
E-Field Sensors
This proximity system can be installed on building perimeters, fences, and walls, and also has the ability to be installed free standing on dedicated poles. The system uses an electromagnetic field generator powering one wire, with another sensing wire running parallel to it. Both wires run along the perimeter and are usually installed about 800 millimetres apart. The sensing wire is connected to a signal processor that analyses:
Amplitude change (mass of intruder),
Rate change (movement of intruder),
Preset disturbance time (time the intruder is in the pattern).
These items define the characteristics of an intruder and when all three are detected simultaneously, an alarm signal is generated. The barrier can provide protection from the ground to about 4 metres of altitude. It is usually configured in zones of about 200 metre lengths depending on the number of sensor wires installed.
Pros: concealed as a buried form.
Cons: expensive, short zones which means more electronic (more money), high rate of false alarms as it might sound as it can define a cat from a human in reality it doesn't work that well as well as extreme weather causes false alarms.
Conclusion: As in the buried security systems field the Passive Magnetic Field Detection will do a better job most of the time.
H-Field Sensors
This system employs an electro-magnetic field disturbance principle based on two unshielded (or ‘leaky’) coaxial cables buried about 10-15cm deep and located at about 2.1 metres apart. The transmitter emits continuous Radio Frequency (RF) energy along one cable and the energy is received by the other cable. When the change in field strength weakens due to the presence of an object and reaches a pre-set lower threshold, an alarm condition is generated. The system is unobtrusive when it has been installed correctly, however care must be taken to ensure the surrounding soil offers good drainage in order to reduce nuisance alarms.
Pros: concealed as a buried form.
Cons: affected by RF noise, high rate of false alarms, hard to install.
Conclusion: Choose one of the other 2 buried security systems sensors.
************************************************************
Brian K. Allen is a coach, trainer and entrepreneur in Arizona. For
FREE Bodyguard info, goto this site and request the FREE module:
http://www.TheBodyguardCourse.com
************************************************************
1. Passive Magnetic Field Detection
2. E-Field Sensors
3. H-Field Sensors
Let’s look at each on individually:
Passive Magnetic Field Detection
This buried security system is based on the Magnetic Anomaly Detection principle of operation. The system uses an electromagnetic field generator powering with two wires running in parallel. Both wires run along the perimeter and are usually installed about 5 inches apart on top of a wall or about foot buried in the ground. The wires are connected to a signal processor which analyze any change in the magnetic field. This kind of buried security system sensor cable could be buried on the top of almost any kind of wall to provide a regular wall detection ability or be buried in the ground.
Pros: Very low false alarm rate, can be put on top of any wall, very high chance to detect real burglars.
Cons: Can't be installed in near high voltage line or radars and airports.
Conclusion: The best solution in the buried sensors range.
E-Field Sensors
This proximity system can be installed on building perimeters, fences, and walls, and also has the ability to be installed free standing on dedicated poles. The system uses an electromagnetic field generator powering one wire, with another sensing wire running parallel to it. Both wires run along the perimeter and are usually installed about 800 millimetres apart. The sensing wire is connected to a signal processor that analyses:
Amplitude change (mass of intruder),
Rate change (movement of intruder),
Preset disturbance time (time the intruder is in the pattern).
These items define the characteristics of an intruder and when all three are detected simultaneously, an alarm signal is generated. The barrier can provide protection from the ground to about 4 metres of altitude. It is usually configured in zones of about 200 metre lengths depending on the number of sensor wires installed.
Pros: concealed as a buried form.
Cons: expensive, short zones which means more electronic (more money), high rate of false alarms as it might sound as it can define a cat from a human in reality it doesn't work that well as well as extreme weather causes false alarms.
Conclusion: As in the buried security systems field the Passive Magnetic Field Detection will do a better job most of the time.
H-Field Sensors
This system employs an electro-magnetic field disturbance principle based on two unshielded (or ‘leaky’) coaxial cables buried about 10-15cm deep and located at about 2.1 metres apart. The transmitter emits continuous Radio Frequency (RF) energy along one cable and the energy is received by the other cable. When the change in field strength weakens due to the presence of an object and reaches a pre-set lower threshold, an alarm condition is generated. The system is unobtrusive when it has been installed correctly, however care must be taken to ensure the surrounding soil offers good drainage in order to reduce nuisance alarms.
Pros: concealed as a buried form.
Cons: affected by RF noise, high rate of false alarms, hard to install.
Conclusion: Choose one of the other 2 buried security systems sensors.
************************************************************
Brian K. Allen is a coach, trainer and entrepreneur in Arizona. For
FREE Bodyguard info, goto this site and request the FREE module:
http://www.TheBodyguardCourse.com
************************************************************
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Incident Report (IR) Writing
Whether you’re a bodyguard, police officer, sheriff’s deputy, corrections officer, private investigator or corporate security specialist… incident reporting writing is a skill you need to develop and maintain.
The best way to ensure you have the information you’ll need while writing your IR is to ensure you take field notes throughout the day. Record problems as they occur. Also record anything out of the ordinary in addition to things that just make you curious.
In taking good notes, remember the six KEY words that drive your focus: Who, What, When, Where, Why & How.
1. Who was the victim or suspect? Who was injured? Who are the witnesses?
2. What exactly happened? What was damaged or affected?
3. When did the incident or smaller event (contained within the incident) occur?
4. Where was the exact location of the incident? If you don’t have an address, room number or floor, etc – use landmarks or common areas to pinpoint the location. (buildings; fences; landmarks; monuments; etc)
5. Why did the incident happen? Was a window / lock broken? Was a door left open? Remember, a lot of times it will be difficult to answer the ‘why’… so don’t jump to conclusions.
6. How did the incident occur? Answering this will, in of itself, help you discover facts. The answer will normally be a process or sequence of events. It will cause you to look at ‘actions’ that took place, ‘conditions’ of the environment and even seemingly unrelated events before the incident.
Finally, let’s discuss the 3 C’s of Report Writing. The Police Sciences Institute published an article defining the 3 C’s as:
I. Clear
The facts should be stated in a manner that leaves no room for misinterpretation.
II. Complete
The report should contain ALL necessary information that is known at the time.
III. Concise
The report should contain only the essential information. Upon proof reading, if you discover irrelevant info… remove it prior to submitting your report.
-end-
************************************************************
Brian K. Allen is a coach, trainer and entrepreneur in Arizona. For
FREE Bodyguard info, goto this site and request the FREE module:
http://www.TheBodyguardCourse.com
************************************************************
The best way to ensure you have the information you’ll need while writing your IR is to ensure you take field notes throughout the day. Record problems as they occur. Also record anything out of the ordinary in addition to things that just make you curious.
In taking good notes, remember the six KEY words that drive your focus: Who, What, When, Where, Why & How.
1. Who was the victim or suspect? Who was injured? Who are the witnesses?
2. What exactly happened? What was damaged or affected?
3. When did the incident or smaller event (contained within the incident) occur?
4. Where was the exact location of the incident? If you don’t have an address, room number or floor, etc – use landmarks or common areas to pinpoint the location. (buildings; fences; landmarks; monuments; etc)
5. Why did the incident happen? Was a window / lock broken? Was a door left open? Remember, a lot of times it will be difficult to answer the ‘why’… so don’t jump to conclusions.
6. How did the incident occur? Answering this will, in of itself, help you discover facts. The answer will normally be a process or sequence of events. It will cause you to look at ‘actions’ that took place, ‘conditions’ of the environment and even seemingly unrelated events before the incident.
Finally, let’s discuss the 3 C’s of Report Writing. The Police Sciences Institute published an article defining the 3 C’s as:
I. Clear
The facts should be stated in a manner that leaves no room for misinterpretation.
II. Complete
The report should contain ALL necessary information that is known at the time.
III. Concise
The report should contain only the essential information. Upon proof reading, if you discover irrelevant info… remove it prior to submitting your report.
-end-
************************************************************
Brian K. Allen is a coach, trainer and entrepreneur in Arizona. For
FREE Bodyguard info, goto this site and request the FREE module:
http://www.TheBodyguardCourse.com
************************************************************
Monday, January 19, 2009
Responding to Bomb Threats
Before reading this blog, you may want to print this checklist:
US Homeland Security - Bomb Threat Checklist
http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/ocso-bomb_threat_samepage-brochure.pdf
Responding to Bomb Threats
Instruct all personnel, especially those at the telephone switchboard, in what to do if a bomb threat call is received.
It is always desirable that more than one person listen in on the call. To do this, a covert signaling system should be implemented, perhaps by using a coded buzzer signal to a second reception point. A calm response to the bomb threat caller could result in obtaining additional information. This is especially true if the caller wishes to avoid injuries or deaths. If told that the building is occupied or cannot be evacuated in time, the bomber may be willing to give more specific information on the bomb's location, components, or method of initiation.
The bomb threat caller is the best source of information about the bomb. When a bomb threat is called in:
1.) Keep the caller on the line as long as possible. Ask him/her to repeat the message. Record every word spoken by the person.
2.) If the caller does not indicate the location of the bomb or the time of possible detonation, ask him/her for this information.
3.) Inform the caller that the building is occupied and the detonation of a bomb could result in death or serious injury to many innocent people.
4.) Pay particular attention to background noises, such as motors running, music playing, and any other noise which may give a clue as to the location of the caller.
5.) Listen closely to the voice (male, female), voice quality (calm, excited), accents, and speech impediments. Immediately after the caller hangs up, report the threat to the person designated by management to receive such information.
6.) Report the information immediately to the police department, fire department, ATF, FBI, and other appropriate agencies. The sequence of notification should be established in the bomb incident plan.
7.) Remain available, as law enforcement personnel will want to interview you.
When a written threat is received, save all materials, including any envelope or container. Once the message is recognized as a bomb threat, further unnecessary handling should be avoided. Every possible effort must be made to retain evidence such as fingerprints, handwriting or typewriting, paper, and postal marks. These will prove essential in tracing the threat and identifying the writer.
While written messages are usually associated with generalized threats and extortion attempts, a written warning of a specific device may occasionally be received. It should never be ignored.
Decision Time
The most serious of all decisions to be made by management in the event of a bomb threat is whether to evacuate the building. In many cases, this decision may have already been made during the development of the bomb incident plan. Management may pronounce a carte blanche policy that, in the event of a bomb threat, total evacuation will be effective immediately. This decision circumvents the calculated risk and demonstrates a deep concern for the safety of personnel in the building. However, such a decision can result in costly loss of time.
Essentially, there are three alternatives when faced with a bomb threat:
1. Ignore the threat.
2. Evacuate immediately.
3. Search and evacuate if warranted.
Ignoring the threat completely can result in some problems. While a statistical argument can be made that very few bomb threats are real, it cannot be overlooked that bombs have been located in connection with threats. If employees learn that bomb threats have been received and ignored, it could result in morale problems and have a long term adverse effect on your business.
Also, there is the possibility that if the bomb threat caller feels that he/she is being ignored, he/she may go beyond the threat and actually plant a bomb.
Evacuating immediately on every bomb threat is an alternative that on face value appears to be the preferred approach. However, the negative factors inherent in this approach must be considered. The obvious result of immediate evacuation is the disruptive effect on your business.
If the bomb threat caller knows that your policy is to evacuate each time a call is made, he/she can continually call and force your business to a standstill. An employee, knowing that the policy is to evacuate immediately, may make a threat in order to get out of work. A student may use a bomb threat to avoid a class or miss a test. Also, a bomber wishing to cause personal injuries could place a bomb near an exit normally used to evacuate and then call in the threat.
Initiating a search after a threat is received and evacuating a building after a suspicious package or device is found is the third, and perhaps most desired, approach. It is certainly not as disruptive as an immediate evacuation and will satisfy the requirement to do something when a threat is received. If a device is found, the evacuation can be accomplished expeditiously while at the same time avoiding the potential danger areas of the bomb.
-end-
************************************************************
Brian K. Allen is a coach, trainer and entrepreneur in Arizona. For
FREE Bodyguard info, goto this site and request the FREE module:
http://www.TheBodyguardCourse.com/
************************************************************
US Homeland Security - Bomb Threat Checklist
http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/ocso-bomb_threat_samepage-brochure.pdf
Responding to Bomb Threats
Instruct all personnel, especially those at the telephone switchboard, in what to do if a bomb threat call is received.
It is always desirable that more than one person listen in on the call. To do this, a covert signaling system should be implemented, perhaps by using a coded buzzer signal to a second reception point. A calm response to the bomb threat caller could result in obtaining additional information. This is especially true if the caller wishes to avoid injuries or deaths. If told that the building is occupied or cannot be evacuated in time, the bomber may be willing to give more specific information on the bomb's location, components, or method of initiation.
The bomb threat caller is the best source of information about the bomb. When a bomb threat is called in:
1.) Keep the caller on the line as long as possible. Ask him/her to repeat the message. Record every word spoken by the person.
2.) If the caller does not indicate the location of the bomb or the time of possible detonation, ask him/her for this information.
3.) Inform the caller that the building is occupied and the detonation of a bomb could result in death or serious injury to many innocent people.
4.) Pay particular attention to background noises, such as motors running, music playing, and any other noise which may give a clue as to the location of the caller.
5.) Listen closely to the voice (male, female), voice quality (calm, excited), accents, and speech impediments. Immediately after the caller hangs up, report the threat to the person designated by management to receive such information.
6.) Report the information immediately to the police department, fire department, ATF, FBI, and other appropriate agencies. The sequence of notification should be established in the bomb incident plan.
7.) Remain available, as law enforcement personnel will want to interview you.
When a written threat is received, save all materials, including any envelope or container. Once the message is recognized as a bomb threat, further unnecessary handling should be avoided. Every possible effort must be made to retain evidence such as fingerprints, handwriting or typewriting, paper, and postal marks. These will prove essential in tracing the threat and identifying the writer.
While written messages are usually associated with generalized threats and extortion attempts, a written warning of a specific device may occasionally be received. It should never be ignored.
Decision Time
The most serious of all decisions to be made by management in the event of a bomb threat is whether to evacuate the building. In many cases, this decision may have already been made during the development of the bomb incident plan. Management may pronounce a carte blanche policy that, in the event of a bomb threat, total evacuation will be effective immediately. This decision circumvents the calculated risk and demonstrates a deep concern for the safety of personnel in the building. However, such a decision can result in costly loss of time.
Essentially, there are three alternatives when faced with a bomb threat:
1. Ignore the threat.
2. Evacuate immediately.
3. Search and evacuate if warranted.
Ignoring the threat completely can result in some problems. While a statistical argument can be made that very few bomb threats are real, it cannot be overlooked that bombs have been located in connection with threats. If employees learn that bomb threats have been received and ignored, it could result in morale problems and have a long term adverse effect on your business.
Also, there is the possibility that if the bomb threat caller feels that he/she is being ignored, he/she may go beyond the threat and actually plant a bomb.
Evacuating immediately on every bomb threat is an alternative that on face value appears to be the preferred approach. However, the negative factors inherent in this approach must be considered. The obvious result of immediate evacuation is the disruptive effect on your business.
If the bomb threat caller knows that your policy is to evacuate each time a call is made, he/she can continually call and force your business to a standstill. An employee, knowing that the policy is to evacuate immediately, may make a threat in order to get out of work. A student may use a bomb threat to avoid a class or miss a test. Also, a bomber wishing to cause personal injuries could place a bomb near an exit normally used to evacuate and then call in the threat.
Initiating a search after a threat is received and evacuating a building after a suspicious package or device is found is the third, and perhaps most desired, approach. It is certainly not as disruptive as an immediate evacuation and will satisfy the requirement to do something when a threat is received. If a device is found, the evacuation can be accomplished expeditiously while at the same time avoiding the potential danger areas of the bomb.
-end-
************************************************************
Brian K. Allen is a coach, trainer and entrepreneur in Arizona. For
FREE Bodyguard info, goto this site and request the FREE module:
http://www.TheBodyguardCourse.com/
************************************************************
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Basics of Surveillance
Surveillance is the systematic observation of people, places or thngs in order to obtain information. Surveillance is generally carried out without the knowledge of those under surveillance and is concerned primarily with people.
Surveillance is conducted in one of two techniques. (1) stationary or (2) mobile. Mobile surveillance is conducted either on foot or in a vehicle. One or both of these techniques of surveillance may be used on a surveillance to accurately document the target’s movements either by personal observation, photographs or video. The objective of surveillance is to gather and document information for personal knowledge or courtroom testimony.
The most common technique of surveillance employed by agents, investigators & law enforcement is a combination of stationary and mobile.
Terms related to surveillance:
Burned: Term indicating that the subject has discovered the identity of an operative.
Contact: Any person the subject meets or confers with.
Convoy: A person employed by a subject to detect surveillance. Usually done by following the subject.
Decoy: A person who attempts to divert the operative’s attention from the subject.
Mobile surveillance: Used when the target is moving, either walking or in a vehicle.
Operative: The person conducting surveillance.
Stationary surveillance: Used when the target is not expected to become mobile.
Target: The person, place or thing under surveillance.
PREPARATION FOR SURVEILLANCE
Surveillance preparation will begin only AFTER you've received a retainer fee, first installment or upfront money of some kind. First, you should prepare an investigative form that contains all the vital information needed to identify the target. First and foremost is to obtain an accurate address and description of the target including any distinguishing marks, tattoos etc.
What vehicle will the target possibly be driving or riding in? What are the target’s social habits and work day habits? Also, make a note of WHY the investigation is required.
If the investigation is a Worker’s Compensation case the information should include details of the accident and the type of injury. The target’s habits should also be listed. Pertinent telephone number should be included. This information is obtained from the client.
Leave enough room on your form for gathering additional information through your traditional channels such as the motor vehicle division, county recorders office, voter registration, directory assistance, etc.
(the end, for now) :-)
************************************************************
Brian K. Allen is a coach, trainer and entrepreneur in Arizona. For
FREE Bodyguard info, goto this site and request the FREE module:
http://www.TheBodyguardCourse.com/
************************************************************
Surveillance is conducted in one of two techniques. (1) stationary or (2) mobile. Mobile surveillance is conducted either on foot or in a vehicle. One or both of these techniques of surveillance may be used on a surveillance to accurately document the target’s movements either by personal observation, photographs or video. The objective of surveillance is to gather and document information for personal knowledge or courtroom testimony.
The most common technique of surveillance employed by agents, investigators & law enforcement is a combination of stationary and mobile.
Terms related to surveillance:
Burned: Term indicating that the subject has discovered the identity of an operative.
Contact: Any person the subject meets or confers with.
Convoy: A person employed by a subject to detect surveillance. Usually done by following the subject.
Decoy: A person who attempts to divert the operative’s attention from the subject.
Mobile surveillance: Used when the target is moving, either walking or in a vehicle.
Operative: The person conducting surveillance.
Stationary surveillance: Used when the target is not expected to become mobile.
Target: The person, place or thing under surveillance.
PREPARATION FOR SURVEILLANCE
Surveillance preparation will begin only AFTER you've received a retainer fee, first installment or upfront money of some kind. First, you should prepare an investigative form that contains all the vital information needed to identify the target. First and foremost is to obtain an accurate address and description of the target including any distinguishing marks, tattoos etc.
What vehicle will the target possibly be driving or riding in? What are the target’s social habits and work day habits? Also, make a note of WHY the investigation is required.
If the investigation is a Worker’s Compensation case the information should include details of the accident and the type of injury. The target’s habits should also be listed. Pertinent telephone number should be included. This information is obtained from the client.
Leave enough room on your form for gathering additional information through your traditional channels such as the motor vehicle division, county recorders office, voter registration, directory assistance, etc.
(the end, for now) :-)
************************************************************
Brian K. Allen is a coach, trainer and entrepreneur in Arizona. For
FREE Bodyguard info, goto this site and request the FREE module:
http://www.TheBodyguardCourse.com/
************************************************************
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