The US Enhances Soft Target Security

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The lethal mass shooting in Las Vegas in 2017 showcased once again the vulnerability of certain soft target events. In this case, a shooter opened fire from an elevated hotel room and targeted the crowd at an outdoor concert, killing at least 58 people and injuring 515.

While remaining vigilant about preventing terrorist attacks on traditional targets and high profile events, it’s equally important that to focus on securing soft targets. These are places where people gather freely, like music festivals, houses of worship, or shopping centers, which are easily accessible and often have minimal security, potentially making it easier and cheaper to carry out an attack.

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has been increasing efforts toward securing these soft targets from attacks. In its new report called the DHS Soft Target and Crowded Places Security Plan Overview, the DHS describes how it is working to enhance its efforts to secure soft targets and crowded places across the country.

The department addresses security and preparedness around soft targets in several ways. It directs security operations and support, facilitates awareness, shares information and intelligence, builds partner capability and capacity, and conducts research and development.

The plan outlines several new initiatives, including incentivizing investments in soft target and crowded places security.

DHS will also enhance a culture of awareness through a major education and awareness campaign. It will also engage with key international partners to share best practices and lessons learned and increase awareness of and access to resources, according to homelandprepnews.com.

All levels of government, as well as the private sector and even individual citizens, play important roles in protecting communities and preventing attacks, officials from the DHS said.