How Safe Are We? Essay

September 4, 2011

Introduction to Sociology # 101, Assignment #1

C. Wright Mills “Theory” Public Issue

Article: How Safe Are We? Arizona Republic, Sunday September 4, 2011

The article covers how Homeland Security chief Janet Napolitano’s assessment on the nation’s security since the 9/11 attacks. As the 10th anniversary approaches, Ms. Napolitano shares her assessment on the nation’s security. As the third secretary of the Department of Homeland Security stated America is much more prepared now than it was a decade ago. She also stated there are no guarantees in the world today.

Ms. Napolitano states not only are the nation more prepared so is Arizona. She mentions that Arizona had one of the first fusion centers, federal, state and local law enforcement are co-located, and the purpose is for sending and receiving information from Washington. D.C., and is related to intelligence, possible techniques, and tactics that may occur on the terrorist front. The name of the fusion is Arizona Counter Terrorism Information Center, or ACTIC. Ms. Napolitano also goes on to say that, the southern border of Arizona is more fortified than it was 10 years ago, has more manpower, infrastructure, and technology.

A significant amount of concern in Arizona regarding nuclear power, nuclear power plants are often a terrorist target. Arizona has the largest nuclear generating facility in the country, Palo Verde. Ms. Napolitano states that nuclear power plants are very well prepared and must meet rigid safety standards and regularly exercise with state and local emergency personnel if there were an accidental release.

Additionally, Ms. Napolitano states that the Arizona borders as well as other ports of entry are doing very well with inspections. This is due to the technology they have now. They have machines that are able to see inside a trunk without having to unload it, explosive trace detection monitors and radiation trace detection monitors. Overall Ms....