October 2006

Fighting Terrorism Close to Home

Walton EMC joins the crusade to catch terrorists

Walton EMC employees are now aiding in the fight against terrorism.

Commercial drivers completing the Highway Watch program are trained to look for suspicious activities like roadside photographers taking pictures of bridges, government buildings or other sensitive facilities.

Highway Watch, a new program created by the Department of Homeland Security, now requires all Georgia commercial drivers to receive their Highway Watch ID before they can get or renew their CDL license.

The program teaches drivers to look out for strange or suspicious situations while on the road—situations that could potentially lead authorities to identify terrorist activity.

CDL holders represent three percent of the nation’s population, according to the Department of Homeland Security. Authorities hope that having this significant portion of the population informed and on the lookout will increase the chances of catching terrorists.

One hundred fifteen Walton EMC employees, including linemen, meter readers, survey technicians and engineers, will undergo the training. Some have already completed the training requirements.

After completing the requirements, participants receive a Highway Watch ID number, which they will use when contacting emergency personnel through a telephone hotline. Security-related calls will be forward to the Highway Information Sharing and Analysis Center to be shared will intelligence officials.

While Highway Watch is a requirement for CDL drivers, Larry Thompson, Loss Control Director for Walton EMC, envisions that all employees will go through the training. It’s one way that we can help make our nation safer.

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