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CNN Live At Daybreak

Security in Washington Tight for Fourth

Aired July 04, 2002 - 06:06   ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.


THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
CAROL COSTELLO, CNN ANCHOR: Despite increased security today, Americans are being urged to go about their business as usual.

CNN's Patty Davis looks at the business of protecting Washington.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

PATTY DAVIS, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): For the first time, miles of double snow fences encircle Washington's National Mall to control crowds gathered for the Fourth of July concerts and fireworks. Hundreds of thousands are expected.

CHIEF TERESA CHAMBERS, U.S. PARK POLICE: The point of the fencing is we'll be able to funnel people through controlled areas. We'll be inspecting all backpacks, coolers, any package that's brought on board, making sure that there's no alcohol, no weapons, no fireworks, anything illegal.

DAVIS: Everyone will have to enter through one of 24 checkpoints.

ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON (D), D.C. DELEGATE: I was concerned that this might be a fortress. Instead, I see that it's a pleasant, inviting snow fence that will essentially say to people you're invited to the Fourth of July.

DAVIS: More than 2,000 police are on the National Mall, some with dogs. Days off have been canceled for all Washington, D.C. officers. Overhead, police helicopters and military jets. Not so visible, undercover officers working the crowds. New security cameras, these peering from the Lincoln Memorial, serve as extra eyes. Boaters, normally allowed to watch the fireworks from near the Potomac River shore, pushed further away this year.

CHIEF TERRANCE GAINER, CAPITOL POLICE: I think we are appropriately cautiously concerned. But there is absolutely no terrorist threat. There's no specific information. But we know this is a time very unique to America. So we have to be on guard and we are. And that's why I think you see so many preparations going on by law enforcement.

DAVIS: Law enforcement officials are telling people to be more vigilant, but leave the worrying to them.

Patty Davis, CNN, Washington.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

COSTELLO: And as you know, September 11 has many Americans looking over their shoulders for anything suspicious. Muslim Americans are feeling the impact, as well. Many are opting to celebrate at home this Fourth with friends. Some say heightened security could make them the target of edgy law enforcement.

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