Recently, there has been an increase in force protection incidents caused by protests happening outside the gates of several Coast Guard units, including Station Chicago, the Federal Building in Seattle, and near Coast Guard Island, in Alameda, Calif. Thankfully, no Coast Guard members or their families have been physically injured during these incidents.

As a military service and component of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), we will continue to carry out our missions and work with our partners. Make your personal safety a priority by staying aware of your surroundings and taking proactive steps to protect yourself—whether you’re at work, home, traveling or attending public events or large gatherings.

Personal safety tips:

Stay Alert and Aware

• Monitor local news sources for up-to-date information regarding planned protest activities which may involve violent interactions with Law Enforcement. Personnel must pay particular attention to activities occurring near or on CG installations where Exchanges, Clinics, other missions support facilities are located.
• Be vigilant about your surroundings at all times, whether at work, home, traveling, or attending public events.
• Avoid predictable routines and vary your routes and schedules whenever possible.

Minimize Your Public Profile

• Consider wearing civilian clothing instead of uniforms when traveling to and from work to avoid drawing attention to your status as U.S. military personnel.
• Be cautious about sharing personal information or details about your Coast Guard affiliation on social media.

Follow Security Procedures

• Practice good security habits, such as locking doors and windows, securing personal belongings and being mindful of who you share sensitive information with.
• Familiarize yourself with the USCG Individual Force Protection Measures Pocket Card.

Travel Safely

• Plan your travel routes carefully and avoid high-risk areas when possible.
• Stay in well-lit, populated areas and avoid traveling alone, especially at night.

Protect Yourself at Home

• Ensure your home is secure by locking doors and windows and using security systems if available.
• Be cautious about sharing your home address or personal details with strangers.

Be Prepared for Emergencies

• Keep emergency contact numbers readily available.
• Have a plan in place for responding to potential threats, whether at home, work, or in public.

Report Local Safety Risks

• If you see any threats or potentially unsafe situations at your unit, report it immediately through your chain of command, who will notify the appropriate command center and security manager.
• If you have any legal concerns related to force protection measures, contact your servicing legal office.
• If you have questions about local force protection or need assistance, contact your security manager.

Report Suspicious Activity

• Immediately report any suspicious activity or concerns to the appropriate authorities:
  • Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS): E-mail CGISTips@USCG.mil.
  • Coast Guard Counterintelligence Service (CGCIS): Call the hotline at 866-399-3411 or e-mail CounterIntelligence@USCG.mil. 
• If you become aware of an imminent threat involving violence, serious injury or kidnapping, notify the National Command Center immediately at 1-800-DAD-SAFE, 202-372-2100, or NationalCommandCenter@USCG.mil.

Your safety is our priority. Stay vigilant and take proactive steps to protect yourself and others.

-USCG-

Resources:

• USCG Individual Force Protection Measures Pocket Card (CAC required)