DHS Secretary Vows to Support Responders
CHICAGO, Ill. -- DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano lauded responders here Thursday during the opening ceremonies of Fire-Rescue 2010.
'We hear you loud and clear. DHS understands, appreciates and stands behind the fire departments of the United States," she told the crowd. Thousands of fire and rescue personnel have descended on Chicago for several days of classes and training.
Napolitano said homeland security begins with hometown security, and praised responders for trying to keep abreast of challenges in this ever-changing environment.
Despite the tough economic times, she vowed to support "firefighters, emergency responders and first responders to keep you safe."
She outlined the various grants available to responders, including FIRE Act, SAFER and Fire Prevention and Safety.
To enhance the eligibility during these tough times, she said the local match was waived and other changes for SAFER grants were made. In addition to training, staffing and tools, Napolitano said sharing of information about possible threats also is essential to keeping personnel safe.
She urged the crowd to help strengthen the "architecture of security across the nation."
Napolitano said there are new endeavors being launched to encourage citizens to report suspicious activity. One is, "If you see something, say something."
She reminded the responders that a street vendor in New York City notified police after he noticed a suspicious vehicle. Authorities investigated, and it was determined it contained explosive materials. Reporting unusual circumstances is one of the most powerful, proactive tools out there.
"We don't live in a glass bubble, and we'll never totally eliminate it (terrorism)," she said.
