It was in July 2010 that Department of Homeland Security (DHS) launched the national “If You See Something, Say Something™” public awareness campaign. When originally created by New York’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority, the slogan was thought to be a simple and effective way to raise public awareness of indicators of terrorism and violent crime, and to emphasize the importance of reporting suspicious activity to proper law enforcement authorities.

Now, 10 years following the 9/11 tragedy, “If You See Something, Say Something” has grown to underscore the idea that homeland security begins with hometown security, where an alert public plays a critical role in keeping our nation safe – not only in manmade disasters like 9/11 but also in natural disasters. And it is our observation that the notion that safety, security and even survival are byproducts of intentional, advance activities is slowly taking hold.

Luck never hurts, but when people survive a disaster, when homes don’t break apart in a hurricane or tornado, it is because someone did something purposely beforehand to increase their odds.

With overnight news of increased threats to New York and Washington D.C., as we confront the somber occasion of the 10-year anniversary of 9/11, and in a year that has seen some of the most devastating natural disasters in history, FLASH salutes the heroics of first responders everywhere — and all of our partners in the disaster safety movement — for their unyielding efforts and dedication to make America a safer place to live. They “see,” “say” and “do” something for us all — every day.