Austin’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) has introduced the Bomb-Making Materials Awareness Program (BMAP) in the capital area. The initiative, funded by the State Homeland Security Grant Program, aims to prevent domestic terrorism by educating businesses about potential threats related to explosive materials.
HSEM Director Ken Snipes emphasized the importance of prevention and risk management, stating, “BMAP is one way our office is increasing capacity beyond emergency management response.” This program marks a significant step in enhancing outreach to the business community to combat terrorism.
BMAP, sponsored by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency's Office for Bombing Prevention, focuses on restricting access to explosive precursor chemicals and educating businesses on recognizing and reporting suspicious activities. According to Snipes, the program is designed to be most effective during the planning stages of a terrorist attack.
To enhance community safety, individuals are encouraged to report any suspicious behavior related to improvised explosive devices to the appropriate authorities. The public is reminded to focus on behavior rather than characteristics such as race or gender to safeguard civil rights and liberties.
Businesses are also urged to play a crucial role in maintaining community safety by implementing the RACK system: Recognize, Ask, Check, Know. This strategy involves recognizing products that can be used to make bombs, verifying customer identities, monitoring inventory, and reporting any suspicious purchases or behaviors.
Austin HSEM's BMAP outreach experts will be engaging with businesses in the 10-county region to provide education on the prevention program. Additionally, regional entities can request training and educational materials from the HSEM by contacting them via email.
In conclusion, the Bomb-Making Materials Awareness Program serves as a proactive approach to enhancing community safety and preventing potential threats in the region. By fostering collaboration between public and private sectors, Austin HSEM is taking concrete steps to mitigate the risks associated with homemade explosive devices.