It can be difficult to know just what "something suspicious" looks like. But you know the world around you—the things that you see every day. You will notice if something seems a little strange, out of place or just not quite right.
If you encounter something suspicious, report your suspicions to police. We would like to remind everyone that in order to protect the rights and civil liberties of all persons, remember to rely on the suspicious activity, not the person's race, gender, creed or religion.
IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD
Never spy on or pry into your neighbors' affairs or property, but do keep your eyes open, as you would in a neighborhood watch. Some things to be aware of:
- Strange or abandoned vehicles on the side of the road.
- Service vehicles in front of houses, where that type of service isn't taking place.
- People you don't recognize "hanging around" your neighborhood for long periods of time.
- People videotaping or using surveillance equipment like binoculars.
- Unauthorized personnel around power lines, poles, transformer boxes, sewers, storm drains, gas lines or other utility equipment.
IN THE WORKPLACE
If something doesn't look like "business as usual," don't hesitate to check with your boss or security personnel. Some things to be aware of:
- Packages, bags or boxes left unattended in public areas like a lobby or parking garage.
- Unexpected or odd-looking packages mailed to your place of business.
- People you don't recognize entering unauthorized areas.
- Anyone tampering with surveillance cameras, safety systems, machinery or other sensitive equipment.
- Exposed wiring, leaks, strange smells or other signs of potential tampering.
DURING YOUR COMMUTE
Stay alert around buses, trains, bridges and roadways. If something doesn't look right, tell the nearest authority or transit employee. Some things to be aware of:
- Bags, boxes or other packages left unattended on buses and trains, in stations or on train tracks.
- People entering unauthorized areas at train or bus stations.
- Exposed wiring, leaks, strange smells or other signs of potential tampering on buses and trains.
- People videotaping, sketching or taking notes on transit equipment or facilities.
- Placing a package or luggage in a different compartment than the one being occupied.
- People who stay at bus or train stations for long periods without getting on.
OTHER THINGS THAT MIGHT BE SUSPICIOUS
- Strange vehicles left unattended near busy areas or under bridges.
- Strange packages left unattended in malls, parking garages, stadiums, theaters or other crowded public places.
- People wearing oversized clothing for their body type or excessively bulky clothing in hot weather.
- Anyone abandoning an item behind and leaving the area quickly.
- People wearing a uniform but not appearing to be involved in an appropriate activity.
- People openly possessing a weapon or dangerous item.
- Strange chemical smells.
"If you SEE something, SAY something!"
Report suspicious activity to the Rockville Police Department at 240-314-8900. If you believe it's an emergency, call 9-1-1.
Rockville City Police
Department of Public Safety
111 Maryland Avenue, Rockville, MD 20850
In case of emergency, call 911
240-314-8900 (non-emergency)
