Introduction
Since the September 11 attack, the United States has spent billions of dollars to improve security and emergency preparedness. Additionally, there have been numerous private and government initiatives aimed at improving public safety. Apart from the initiatives, Americans have taken steps to guarantee their safety. Since the attack, Americans have changed their opinion on security. Besides, security agencies have improved security preparedness in a bid to be ready to deal with potential security threats in the future. This paper will discuss how the September 11 attack and successive terrorist attacks have altered public awareness of security. The paper will also discuss how security agencies have responded to safety concerns.
Impacts of September 11 Attack
Before the attack, most Americans relied on security agencies for their safety. However, the attack made the public change its perception. Today, most Americans have embraced individual preparedness. Americans hold that every person should be proactive about his or her safety. They have come up with family emergency plans to facilitate the handling of security threats. Besides, the public believes that the younger generation can play a great role in promoting safety. The generation is acquainted with modern communication technology. Hence, it is in a better position to alert the public and security agencies in case of any terrorist threat.
The majority of Americans were against thorough screening at airports and other entry and exit terminals. They considered it time-consuming and infringing on their privacy. However, after the attacks, most Americans felt secure after everyone traveling went through a thorough screening. The attack made people be suspicious of one another. As a result, everyone felt uneasy traveling with a stranger. However, screening made people feel comfortable. Additionally, the September 11 attack made most Americans agree to relinquish some civil liberties. The majority of whites, uptown dwellers, and high-income groups were ready to relinquish some civil liberties to the local and federal government. This willingness was an indication that the attack forced Americans to entrust the government and security agencies with their safety.
In response to the need for communication, security agencies installed automated communication systems in major cities. The agencies realized that the only way to combat terrorism was by installing interoperable communication systems. Security agencies invested in intelligence technology to monitor and guarantee public safety. Additionally, they bestowed the responsibility of security management on individuals with vast experience in security control. These individuals include people who have worked in war-wreaked countries like Iraq. They believe that such individuals have inborn ways of identifying criminals.
The security agencies intensified screening at airports and other entry and exit terminals. The federal government was given the responsibility of screening all passengers. Moreover, a Transport Security Administration was established to screen all baggage for explosives. Additionally, security agencies came up with watch lists to ensure that individuals linked to terrorism do not fly. The introduction of watch lists culminated in the establishment of the Secure Flight program, which monitors everyone entering or leaving the United States.
Conclusion
The September 11 attack forced Americans to change their opinions on the need for security. The majority of Americans were willing to relinquish part of their civil liberties to security agencies. Additionally, they embraced communication as a tool for fighting terrorism. Security agencies responded to security needs by intensifying screening and installing communication systems in major cities and entry and exit terminals.
Bibliography
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