MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii -- With publication of the MCB Hawaii Anti-Terrorism Protection Handbook, Marines, Sailors and their families now have a guide that helps keep them from falling victim to acts of terrorism or violent crime.
By following the rules spelled out in the handbook - which include learning about potential threats, keeping a low profile, being unpredictable, and remaining vigilant - service members and their families have a better chance of avoiding an encounter with terrorism.
Available from the MCB Hawaii Anti-Terrorism and Force Protection officer, the handbook spells out special precautions for special situations that may arise.
At home, it's a good idea to lock all doors, including garage doors, and to restrict access to keys.
Developing good relationships with neighbors can go a long way toward preventing crime, since they can help keep watch when you're not around.
When going out, traveling in groups and avoiding high-risk areas help keep service members from becoming targets.
Dress, conduct and mannerisms should not attract attention, and personal matters such as travel plans or mission specifics should not be discussed in public.
Other ways to avoid becoming a target include parking in well-lit areas, keeping gas tanks at least half full at all times, and ensuring vehicles are well-maintained and in good repair.
Before traveling, service members throughout the U.S. Pacific Command are required to have had Level 1 Anti-Terrorism Training within 12 months of their trip, and are required to use the "Buddy System" when traveling abroad.
A current threat and intelligence brief must occur within three months of the departure date, and if the country has a Terrorism Threat Level of "Moderate" or higher, or a criminal threat of "High" or "Critical," the traveler must submit an individual Force Protection Plan for approval.
Force Protection Plans are submitted to the Anti-Terrorism Protection officer through the normal chain of command.
For more detailed instructions about personal security and force protection, pick up a copy of the Anti-Terrorism Protection Handbook.
For more information about country briefs, threat levels, handbooks, or certified anti-terrorism training, have the proper person in your chain of command contact the Anti-Terrorism Protection Officer at (808) 257-8457.
Force protection is every individual's responsibility, and by knowing, understanding and constantly implementing a few simple guidelines, service members and their families can stay safe, while accomplishing their missions.