The police officers at The Port Authority Police Department of New York and New Jersey are committed to keeping our region safe. But you can do more than you might think to keep yourselves and others safe. Whether you’re driving across bridges and through tunnels, using our airports, PATH trains or buses, stay alert and report anything suspicious.
Be on the lookout for anyone taking videos, photos, drawing diagrams or even taking lots of notes about their surroundings.
Report anyone who is inquiring about security operations at a facility, or seems overly curious about procedures.
Often, fire or door security alarms are accidentally set off but if you see someone recording the response time, or paying very close attention to what happens after the alarm goes off, report this activity right away.
A person (or persons) who are standing, sitting or even parked in the same spot over a period of days is unusual.
Nothing is authorized to fly around our facilities, so if you look up and notice a drone, look around for security to alert.
Cameras, alarms or other security measures that have been disabled or tampered with are definitely something to report immediately.
Lots of contractors and maintenance crews pass through our facilities but if you see someone unauthorized or a sudden change to the usual faces something could be up.
If you see someone avoiding security lines or trying to sneak past the TSA at the airport, they could be heading for trouble.
Creating a distraction is a strategy used to get attention away from something else. If you see a fuss about to happen, look everywhere else, too.
People moving into a type of formation, moving things discreetly or appearing to be doing a ‘trial run’ might have a plan that needs to be stopped.
Report seeing a person who doesn’t seem to belong, whether because of how they act or what they’re wearing (like heavy, bulky coats or clothing on a hot day).
While there are all kinds of smells around, if you get a whiff of a chemical odor it’s important to let security know right away.
Anyone armed with a gun or other kind of weapon is dangerous. Report right away.
Keep an eye out for cars parked far from exits and entrances when closer spots are available. Weighted down trunks, obscured license plates or vendor signage that doesn’t make sense are also noteworthy!
Unattended boxes, bags, strollers, suitcases or anything else should be reported right away. If someone asks you to watch their item, say no. And make sure to keep your bags with you at all times, too.
Windows that are not normally open or appear to have been tampered with are a cause for concern.
A very bulky or especially weirdly shaped package could be the start of something suspicious.
Luggage that seems unusually heavy or looks to be seriously overloaded could contain something that needs a further investigation by security.
Be on the lookout for anyone traveling with or leaving behind uncommon electronics or small appliances, bombs are often made from everyday things like crock pots.
Vehicles that have obscured license plates or peculiar logos and signs are questionable, as are any trucks, cars or vans that have very loaded down (heavy) backs and trunks.
Trust your instincts. If something just seems out of the ordinary and different from every other day you commute, let the police know. You spend a lot of time traveling through facilities and your sense of something being ‘off’ is an important asset for our security team.
It’s important to have an idea of where exits and staircases are in any open area. Be aware of large objects that could block paths and think about the easiest way to exit your area if the need should arise.
A person who has clenched fists, is profusely sweating, fidgeting and avoiding eye contact could very well be a nervous traveler—but it could also be someone about to commit a serious crime. If you see someone clearly uncomfortable, you should feel that way too and alert security.
A person hiding behind sunglasses, hoodies, caps, even wigs or unofficial security uniforms is often a sign of someone up to no good.
Be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times. Criminals often confront people who appear distracted, so notice those who notice you.
Never leave your belongings unattended. Carry wallets, handbags and backpacks securely. Use the inside pocket of a jacket or the front pocket of your pants.
Keep jewelry covered whenever possible. Beware of pickpockets and thieves.
Don’t carry a lot of cash. Divide what you have between your purse, pocket and wallet.
