FDLE launches new domestic security alert system

COURTESY PHOTO Leonardo Garcia, executive director of the Southwest Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, participated in the BusinesSafe Program announcement last week. The new program is intended to help protect Florida businesses against all kinds of crime. Florida Department of Law Enforcement Commissioner Gerald Bailey, in conjunction with Florida's Regional Domestic Security Task Forces and business partners, unveiled a new alert system designed to bolster the ability of Florida's businesses to protect themselves and their communities against potential threats. BusinesSafe, a counterterrorism program created by FDLE, allows businesses statewide to register to receive timely electronic alerts on domestic security related issues affecting their industry.

"BusinesSafe creates a two-way communication highway that can be accessed and traveled by every single business in Florida," said Bailey. "With the click of a mouse, we can directly connect with businesses ranging from restaurants to retailers to service industry providers."

The Web-based initiative also provides businesses with sector specific safety tips that highlight ways to identify suspicious activity and better protect assets. Businesses are encouraged to pass on unusual activity through BusinesSafe's online reporting form.

To help reach the state's business community, FDLE is working in conjunction with private sector representatives on the state's Regional Domestic Security Task Forces and some of Florida's major business associations. FDLE is also partnering with the Department of Business and Professional Regulation and the Department of State who between them incorporate, license or regulate hundreds of thousands of Florida businesses.

"The Florida Chamber represents more than 139,000 employers and we encourage all of them to engage in this system to make our business community safer and smarter," said Mark Wilson, president and CEO of the Florida Chamber of Commerce.

BusinesSafe is accessible to businesses of all types and sizes. Alerts will be sent on an as needed basis and will include domestic security-related breaking news, possible threats, suspicious activity, and specific preparedness and prevention techniques. BusinesSafe is available at no charge to businesses or individuals.

Following the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks, Florida established seven Regional Domestic Security Task Forces to prevent, investigate, and respond to terrorist attacks. Each task force includes partners from law enforcement, emergency management, fire/rescue, health, education, communication officials, and representatives from the private sector.

To learn more about BusinesSafe or to sign up for the alerts, go to FDLE's Web site, www.fdle.state.fl.us and click on the "BusinesSafe" icon.