Private Sector Impact on Homeland Security

PRIVATE SECTOR’S DIRECT IMPACT ON

HOMELAND SECURITY’S SUCCESS

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Private Sector (PS) alike, have a vested interest in the war on terror and the security of the nation. The DHS has been tasked with many duties, but the overall mission is clear; keeping America safe. The PS depends on the DHS to accomplish their mission effectively so that their interests may be protected. Working together they can meet objectives that will continue to keep America safe. This paper will discuss the PS and how it can have a direct impact on five of the basic DHS mission objectives.

Mission 1: Prevent Terrorism and Enhance Security. The PS can do its part by starting with information sharing by reporting suspicious activity or unusual behavior that may be helpful in preventing another terror attack. The PS can be a good eye for the DHS security, however they cannot be too zealous into thinking that every person who is acting strangely or does not look like them is a terrorist, and DHS cannot have too many false calls because that expends time and money. The DHS and the PS can create training programs for PS managers and employees on how to properly identify a possible threat; this could deter or disrupt operations.

Strengthening transportation security can be accomplished with the development of better screening systems of passengers to assist the DHS in identifying possible threats or known terrorists attempting to travel. With a new developed and cost effective system, all means of public transportation can screen passengers in efforts to strengthen transportation security. Accurate record keeping and constant monitoring can prevent Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) materials from falling into the wrong hands. An assessment of the current policies and procedures nationwide, concerning the manufacturing, distribution and handling of CBRN by...