CWU Offers Security Preparedness Information

December 24, 2003

ELLENSBURG, Wash.-- The National Homeland Advisory System threat condition was recently moved to orange, reflecting conditions within the country as a whole. Currently, there are said to be no specific threats in Washington.

Even so, the Central Washington University department of public safety and police services has received an increased number of inquiries about homeland security and safety.

"My office is following the governor's directive of heightened monitoring of facilities and locations that could present a risk," Steve Rittereiser, CWU police chief, says. "We will continue to work with local, state and national officials to monitor the situation and consider additional security measures as necessary."

In addition, the university's department of public safety and police services has posted a resource for general questions about homeland security at www.cwu.edu/~police.

"It's a very comprehensive link of information related to all aspects of homeland security," Rittereiser adds.

Rittereiser recommends that, during this time, members of the campus and Ellensburg community remain alert to their surroundings and report any suspicious behavior, or circumstances or criminal activity by calling 911 or (509) 925-8534 in non-emergency situations.