Working Together for a Safer New York
By Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg

Last week, the FBI notified the New York Police Department of a possible terrorist threat against our City. Because familiar New York City landmarks were named, the threat got a good deal of media attention. I want to take this opportunity to outline what we are doing to protect New Yorkers' security and what you can do to help.

Unfortunately, New York City receives many threats on a daily basis. Be assured that we take each one seriously and investigate them all. I can't disclose the details of the process, because publicly discussing specific counter-terrorism measures would undermine their effectiveness.

But you should know that we believe intelligence and preparedness are the keys to stopping terrorism — and New York City is better prepared on those fronts than ever. One of Police Commissioner Ray Kelly's first actions was to add two new deputy commissioners to the NYPD ranks, both of whom bring valuable experience in fighting terrorism. Deputy Police Commissioner for Intelligence David Cohen joins the NYPD after 35 years with the CIA. Deputy Police Commissioner for Counter-Terrorism Frank Libutti was a highly decorated Lieutenant General in the United States Marines, and now directs the NYPD's prevention, training and investigation efforts for terrorist threats directed toward New York City.

Along with new leadership, the NYPD also has received the equipment and training needed to combat terrorism. For example, we recently sent police officers to Israel to receive counter-terrorism instruction that they will then use to educate our uniformed officers back home. We've also greatly improved communication with intelligence and law enforcement agencies at the State and Federal levels.

What can average New Yorkers do to help? Two things. First, exercise common sense. If you see something suspicious, dial 9-1-1 and report it to the professionals; it's their job to investigate it, and they will. Second, keep things in perspective. If you want to take safety measures, don't drink and drive and be sure to wear the seat belt when you ride in a car. Follow through on that perennial New Years Resolution and finally stop smoking. I promise, these measures will protect the life of you and your loved ones more than worrying about terrorism will.

There is a danger though. If we isolate ourselves from one another, or begin to harbor baseless suspicions of our fellow New Yorkers then we will have allowed the terrorists to win. We cannot let our lives be dominated by fear. We're a free and open society. That's what our enemies hate. But that's also what unites Americans and makes us strong. These are difficult times. But we will get through them together.#

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