Mr. Robb Starr gave the presentation at our TNS meeting in Bridge City.  And it really hit a nerve, at least for me.  How safe are we from terrorists?  After the 911 attacks, it doesnt really seem like Americans are safe anywhere-not even in our own country.  Mr. Starr made everyone aware of of the theft of chlorine cylinders from water facilities, not only around the nation, but in our own backyard.  The Regional Water Corporation of Montgomery County (just 25 mile from downtown Houston), reported the theft of a 300 pound chlorine canister.  The incident occurred on July 3, 2007 and took place sometime between midnight and 10:00 o'clock A.M.  The thief or thieves simply cut a hole in the chain-link fence to gain access to the water plant.  There was vandalism as well as the theft.  Several valves were opened and left running causing water damage to the facility.  An electrical box was forced open and some padlocks were jimmied.  But the overall threat comes from the theft of the chlorine canister.  Chlorine is a deadly gas, which causes death when inhaled.  The canisters are highly explosive under the right circumstances.

Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident.  Thefts are being reported in other parts of the country.  Iowa and California have reported thefts, and even Kingston, Jamaica recently reported the theft of 13 chlorine cylinders.

In some instances it is believed that the canisters are being mistaken for anhydrous ammonia cylinders, which is used in the production of methamphetimines.  While the drug has proven an epidemic, it is the more widespread danger that is causing concern now.

"This is now being used as a tactic against us in another part of the world," says Robert Stephan, Homeland Security's infrastructure protection chief.  "We've got to be prepared for it."

Chlorine cylinders are being used in IED's (Improvised Explosive Devices) in Iraq and Afghanistan.  Is it time to look at your facility's security system?  Beefing up security doesn't have to be expensive.  Get your customers involved.  Use your monthly mailings to make the community aware of the dangers, give them an emergency number and contact information.  Ask them to report suspicious activities around plants, hydrants, wells or storage facilities.  Community involvement can be key to not only preventing break-ins, but also in solving them.

Cameras can be a big deterrent, and eye-witness to those who aren't frightened away.  There are sophisticated alarm systems available that will warn of intrusion the moment it occurs.  While this is more expensive, it is effective.

Keep up with your inventory.  Check your records frequently.  Make sure that everything is recorded and updated.  Physically count your inventory on at least a weekly basis.  Report any discrepancies immediately to your local authorities.  This is a critical issue with any police report, the sooner a crime is reported after an occurrence the more likely it is to be solved.

                                                                                            --Kenna