Keeping an eye out at the show
New Cultural Trust security program seeks public’s vigilance
If you notice something suspicious at a play, musical or concert Downtown, the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust wants you to alert an usher or call 911.
The trust announced Monday that it has partnered with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s nationwide awareness program “If You See Something, Say Something.”
“Pittsburgh Cultural Trust facilities are the first venues in the Pittsburgh area to implement the program,” said Bob Winters, the department’s protective security adviser for Western Pennsylvania.
“That’s something that we’re extremely proud of,” said Kevin C. Wilkes, chief security officer for the trust.
Dialing 911 is the easiest and quickest course, but Cultural District visitors also may dial toll-free 888-292-1919, a telephone line monitored by the Pennsylvania State Police and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
On Saturday, when patrons arrive for the Styx concert at Downtown’s Benedum Center, ushers and security staff will enforce new security policies that were announced earlier this month. Bags larger than 16 by 16 by 8 inches are prohibited. Patrons who leave the building for any reason must have a ticket to re-enter.
Signs that announce the public awareness campaign hang throughout the Benedum, Byham Theater and August Wilson Center for African-American Culture. There are off-duty, uniformed Pittsburgh police officers at the trust’s Downtown venues during all events.
A vehicle that is parked in an odd location, an unattended piece of luggage or package or an emergency exit that should be closed but is open are examples of situations that people should report, Mr. Wilkes said.
If someone is loitering outside a theater for long periods, taking numerous photographs of trust buildings or asking about the number of video cameras in those buildings, that activity should be reported, too.
For the past 10 days, ushers have done dress rehearsals so they are ready to handle any situation involving the new safety and security protocols. For more information, visit https://trustarts.org/ or www.dhs.gov/SeeSomething-Say-Something.