SEATTLE – With two daily Amtrak Cascades trains operating to Vancouver, B.C., Amtrak is stepping up its overall security measures in the Pacific Northwest as part of its preparation for the 2010 Winter Games.
“Amtrak is working closely with our partners to provide passengers a safe and secure journey during the Games,” said Amtrak Police Chief John O’Connor, noting increased passenger ridership and activities are expected.
Amtrak Police is supporting local, state and federal counterterrorism efforts including participating in U.S.
Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Visible Intermodal Prevention & Response (VIPR) teams that bring to bear specialized capabilities in monitoring for surveillance, detecting suspicious behaviors, and supporting random security inspections with mobile explosives detection equipment.
At stations, passengers may notice additional uniformed police presence, K-9 explosive detection teams, and random passenger baggage screening activities. During the baggage screening process, randomly selected riders and their carry-on bags, briefcases, backpacks or other selected items, may be screened or inspected by uniformed officers from the Amtrak Police and the TSA.
On board trains, passengers will encounter random security and identification checks. In addition, uniformed and undercover Amtrak police officers will be riding trains. Security messages will also run on monitors throughout the trains traveling to/from Vancouver.
