Putnam Talks Precautions After Boston Tragedy

As reaction to Monday's tragedy at the Boston Marathon continues to roll in across the region, several law enforcement agencies around the area (including those in neighboring Westchster County) have beefed up security.

Here's what Capt. William McNamara from the Putnam County Sheriff's Office told Patch Tuesday morning:

Immediately after the incident in Boston was reported, the Putnam County Sheriff's Office increased the presence of deputy sheriffs at the Metro North train stations within Putnam County and patrols were placed on a heightened state of alertness throughout the County.  Those actions are continuing as a general precaution. I emphasize, however, that we have received no information concerning any threats against persons or property within the county.

County Executive MaryEllen Odell released a statement Tuesday afternoon, noting the similarities between the weather in Boston Monday and the beautiful morning of Sept. 11, 2001.

“The impact of this tragedy reaches far beyond Boston’s city limits,” she said. “Many of our children attend colleges in the Boston area. This impacts us as well. I’m sure I speak for all Putnam residents when I say our hearts, thoughts and prayers are in Boston with everyone who was there.”

Odell reminded folks of the need to be "ever vigilant," as "the safety and security of the public is something federal, state, city and town governments take seriously" but can’t do alone.

“Those of us in Emergency Services need the help of the public at times like this," Putnam’s Commissioner of Emergency Services Adam B. Stiebeling said in the statement. "So please, be aware of your surroundings and let us know if anything seems out of the ordinary.”

Director of Emergency Management Thomas Lannon, Jr. echoed his colleagues' statements.

“Whether it is a cowardly terrorist act or a natural disaster like Super Storm Sandy, we must work together and share information,” Lannon said. “Information is for planning, responding to, recovering from or mitigating an event."

The Sheriff's Office is at a heightened awareness level, Odell said, and the office is increasing patrols in "all large gathering areas."

“Many of our residents commute to Manhattan by rail or car on a daily basis," Odell said. "While we have no expectations of experiencing any event, we will be vigilant and I ask that our residents be vigilant as well.”