HOMELAND SECURITY LOCAL TIPS
New Orleans Office of Homeland Security
The New Orleans Office of Homeland Security & Public Safety has operational and planning authority for the New Orleans Police Department, New Orleans Fire Department, New Orleans Office of Emergency Preparedness, and the Office of Criminal Justice Coordination.
The New Orleans Office of Homeland Security & Public Safety serves as the headquarters for all staff members of the Urban Area Security Initiative. The office also has Fire Department and Police Department liaison officers who coordinate overlapping responsibilities.
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Here are some tips to help keep you and your family prepared in case of an emergency:
- Always have an emergency plan for yourself and family members which should include alternate meeting points or telephone contact points. Keep extra foods, water, and medical supplies such as a first aid kit on hand in case of an emergency.
- Report any suspicious activity or unattended items to the police immediately. Do not touch or approach suspicious items. Leave the area and summon police assistance.
- Be alert for anyone showing inappropriate attention, photographing, or asking questions about public facilities, structures, or critical infrastructure, and report that activity immediately to police or the local office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
- If there is a fire, explosion, or other emergency, do not panic. Calmly proceed away from the threat in an upwind direction of 1000 feet or as directed by a police officer or firefighter.
- Always obey the directions of police officers or firefighters.
- If you suspect a dangerous substance has been released, calmly leave the area immediately taking care to go at least 1000 feet in an upwind direction. As soon as possible, call 911 and describe to the operator any strange odors, inappropriate items (such as spray devices), or symptoms you may be experiencing or reactions from other persons. If you suspect you may have come into contact with a dangerous substance, obey directions from emergency responders.
- You can begin emergency self decontamination by removing clothing believed to be contaminated and flushing any affected area with water from a hose until help arrives.
Promptly report all emergencies to the New Orleans Police Department by dialing 911.
Report any terrorism related information to the New Orleans Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation at (504) 816-3000.
Information concerning Homeland Security, Terrorism, or Hate Crimes can be sent to the New Orleans Police Department Homeland Security Unit via e-mail. Contact Mark Willow at mwillow@cityofno.com.
Emergency or criminal complaints should be reported promptly to the New Orleans Police by dialing 911 or 504-821-2222 (outside of Orleans Parish). Outside law enforcement agencies may contact the New Orleans Police Communications Division Command Desk at 504-671-3950 to have Captain Mark Willow paged for police related matters or emergencies.