Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) Janet Napolitano, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, and police officials from throughout Los Angeles County have launched the “If You See Something, Say Something” public awareness campaign to combat terrorism.

While there have been no specific threats identified, the campaign is being launched at a time of heightened security in light of the killing of Osama Bin Laden.

“Every citizen plays a role in identifying and reporting suspicious activities and threats,” Napolitano said. “Expanding the ‘If You See Something, Say Something’ campaign to Los Angeles and across the country is an important part of our efforts to partner with the public to keep our country safe and resilient.”

The campaign, which was originally implemented by New York City’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority, is a simple program designed to encourage members of the public to identify and report indicators of terrorism, crime and other threats. DHS and the City of Los Angeles will distribute campaign posters throughout the city, including in the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) system, the Port of Los Angeles, and at local police stations and fire stations. They encourage people to call 911 if they see anything suspicious. The public awareness campaign was previously launched in stadiums, arenas, theatres, clubs, convention centers and other venues owned by or affiliated with AEG Facilities.

Over the past nine months, DHS has worked with its federal, state, local and private sector partners, as well as the Department of Justice, to expand the “If You See Something, Say Something” campaign.