Sheriff’s Advice: Time to Be Alert and Prepared

The cowardly attack of Sept. 11 has brought the horrors of terrorism to the forefront of our daily lives. All Americans now share common concerns. I have worked closely with all law enforcement agencies to increase security throughout Orange County. Our cooperative efforts have raised safety to an unprecedented level.

We placed our personnel and resources on full tactical alert following the terrorist attacks. We activated the county emergency operations center and public hotline. Working with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies, we have provided a coordinated response to heighten our state of readiness to an unparalleled level. We will remain at this state of readiness as long as necessary. You may therefore feel safe in your home, at your office or at play.

As residents of Orange County, you should increase your personal level of awareness and preparedness. Please consider the following suggestions:

Be aware of suspicious activity or behavior. Report your concerns to the Sheriff’s Department or your local police agency. Thwart criminals by securing your homes and vehicles.

Become involved in your community. Get to know your neighbors and the routine of your neighborhood. Participation in programs such as Neighborhood Watch increase the security and safety of the community as a whole.

Know the whereabouts of family members. Establish a predetermined meeting point or number to call in case of crisis. Exercise extreme patience and tolerance in your dealings with others.

Heighten your awareness while in large congregations of people such as at sporting events, religious services, concerts, etc.

Know where to turn for assistance. Prepare a list of emergency and important phone numbers and keep it readily accessible:

* Dial 911 in any emergency.

* Sheriff’s Department: (714) 647-7000; https://www.ocsd.org (we can direct you to your local police agency)

* Orange County Fire Authority: (714) 744-0400; https://www.ocfa.org

* FBI toll-free tip line: (866) 483-5137; https://www.fbi.gov

* American Red Cross: (714) 481-5300; https://www.oc-redcross.org (for crisis counseling or more tips on being prepared)

Please join me in protecting Orange County and in doing our part in the war against terrorism.

Michael S. Carona

Sheriff-Coroner