Coast Guard Responds To Raised Threat Level In Washington WASHINGTON – Coast Guard units in Washington are responding after the homeland security threat level was increased Sunday to Orange (high) in the New York, New Jersey and Washington areas. Coast Guard Station Washington has increased security in local ports and waterways with more patrols that are consistent with this threat level to keep the maritime environment secure. The Coast Guard is repositioning some of its forces to support sustained operations. When the immediate need to increase homeland security on the Potomac River became a long-term requirement to maintain a Coast Guard presence, Station Washington became a prototype homeland security unit with the mission of deterring, detecting and preventing terrorist attacks in the waters around our nation’s capital. Citizens will also see an increase in Coast Guard presence with targeted vessel boardings and escorts. Recreational boaters should be aware of security zones and restricted waters and should listen to CH 16/22 on VHF-FM marine radio for information about these restricted areas. The Coast Guard is continuing to work closely with local, state and federal agencies to keep our homeland safe and secure. Mariners can also assist in the war on terrorism by participating in the America’s Waterway Watch program, which encourages anyone who sees suspicious activity along our waterways to report it to the nearest Coast Guard unit or by calling either 1-800-424-8802 or 877-24-WATCH; we are on-call 24-hours a day and will respond promptly. WASHINGTON – Coast Guard units in Washington are responding after the homeland security threat level was increased Sunday to Orange (high) in the New York, New Jersey and Washington areas. Coast Guard Station Washington has increased security in local ports and waterways with more patrols that are consistent with this threat level to keep the maritime environment secure. The Coast Guard is repositioning some of its forces to support sustained operations. When the immediate need to increase homeland security on the Potomac River became a long-term requirement to maintain a Coast Guard presence, Station Washington became a prototype homeland security unit with the mission of deterring, detecting and preventing terrorist attacks in the waters around our nation’s capital. Citizens will also see an increase in Coast Guard presence with targeted vessel boardings and escorts. Recreational boaters should be aware of security zones and restricted waters and should listen to CH 16/22 on VHF-FM marine radio for information about these restricted areas. The Coast Guard is continuing to work closely with local, state and federal agencies to keep our homeland safe and secure. Mariners can also assist in the war on terrorism by participating in the America’s Waterway Watch program, which encourages anyone who sees suspicious activity along our waterways to report it to the nearest Coast Guard unit or by calling either 1-800-424-8802 or 877-24-WATCH; we are on-call 24-hours a day and will respond promptly.
