Following the Paris attacks, as well as a recent intelligence bulletin sent to law enforcement claiming that copycat attacks could occur in the U.S., police will be increasing their presence all across the country for the Thanksgiving weekend, according to CBS News. The increase will be most prominent in New York and New Jersey, which contain some of the busiest travel hubs in the country. Due to the tightened security measures, airport administrators are asking travelers to arrive at least two hours before their flight departures times, according to WCAX.
"I think it quite clear what we're advocating, seriously, is don't be afraid, be aware. It is part of the new world we live in," said New York City Police Commissioner Bill Bratton.
Public tensions have been running high and this has rubbed off on flight companies as well - Southwest Airlines has already delayed or diverted three flights this week; two of the cases stemmed from passengers who became afraid when other fliers on the plane spoke in Arabic, according to CBS New York.
In response to the increased tensions, NYPD officers participated in active shooter and counterterrorism training on Sunday at the Bowery Street subway station, which is currently abandoned. One section of the drill included training for dealing with an attacker wearing a suicide vest, in response to the nature of the terrorism during the Paris attacks.
U.S. intelligence officials believe that the Paris attackers conducted surveillance procedures prior to the attacks, meaning police officials are on the lookout for any suspicious activity that could be related to the surveillance of soft targets.
President Obama made a statement Wednesday to reassure the public that the U.S. government is doing everything in its power to defend its residents.
"What happened in Paris is truly horrific," he said. "I understand that people worry that something similar could happen here. I want you to know that we will continue to do everything in our power to defend our nation."
