HFDST Episode 8: Marketing the importance of “If See Something, Say Something” to the public.
“If You See Something, Say Something”
All this month Hot Fireman Dips and Safety Tips is focusing on the importance of “If You See Something Say Something.” This story in particular highlights the results of astute citizen Lars Knutsen whose presence of mind and “uneasy feeling” led to the arrest and conviction of arsonist Wayne Huntsman.
On September 12, 2001, advertising luminary Allen Kay coined the phrase, “If you see something, say something.” In the wake of horrific events the day before, Kay recognized that no matter how well trained, equipped and staffed, law enforcement can’t do it alone. Within a relatively short period of time, the slogan was plastered on New York City transit vehicles. Over time, the Law Enforcement and Homeland Security slogan has become so well known it has been described as the equivalent of Nike’s “Just do it” advertisement.
Sadly, as often as it is repeated, it seems the slogan is not always implemented. While the investigation into the December 2, 2015 terrorist attack in San Bernardino is ongoing, several neighbors recounted “suspicious activity” to the media that they had failed to report to law enforcement. For this reason, it’s important for law enforcement at all levels to recognize those instances when members of the public answer the call to report suspicious activity.
On September 13, 2014, Lars Knutsen picked up a man needing a ride near a fire in Pollock Pines, California. During the ride, the man who would later be identified as Wayne Huntsman, would describe his “heroic” actions near the scene of the fire. As evidence, Huntsman produced a selfie video in which he describes being surrounded by fire. Lars, somewhat uncomfortable with the tale, had the presence of mind to make a recording of the selfie video with his own phone. After dropping off Huntsman, Lars and the community watched as the fire spread to 97,000 acres and became known as the King Fire. Lars reported the conversation and the video to investigators looking into the fire. Within a few days, Huntsman was taken into custody and charged with arson. While investigators recovered the device Huntsman used to create the selfie video, it had been erased. Thus the video of the video created by Lars became a significant piece of evidence. This is particularly true because by watching the video carefully you can clearly make out two very distinct fire start locations in the background behind Huntsman.
While this is perhaps one of the best examples of “if you see something, say something”, others exist every day. Countless community Watch Pages do an excellent job connecting both members of the public to one another, and connecting the public to law enforcement.
The bottom line, Allen Kay had it right; the public and law enforcement must work together to insure our safety. A thank you to Lars and every other citizen who takes the time to join a watch and say something. If you see something, please say something.
