April 16, 2013 - Risk Alert - Explosion at Boston Marathon*

Risk Alert No. 2013-07
Explosion at Boston Marathon     
April 16, 2013

Two simultaneous explosions, approximately 50-100 yards apart, occurred near the Boston Marathon finish line at 2:50 p.m. yesterday. The race was diverted before being halted as police and fire crews swept the area. Other devices were found and intentionally deactivated by law enforcement officials. Initial police reports identify two deaths and many injured.
A third explosion was reported at the JFK Library. No injuries were reported.

Boston Police Commissioner Edward Davis recommends that individuals in the Boston area do the following:
1. Go home
2. Do not congregate in large crowds
3. If staying at a hotel, return to hotel

Anyone attempting to locate a relative who was in the vicinity of the marathon should call the Mayor’s hotline at 617-635-4500.
Anyone who noticed suspicious activity at the site of the explosion should call 1-800-494-TIPS.

In light of the fact that 1.) there were multiple devices, and 2.) the Police Commissioner is encouraging people in the Boston area to stay home, this alert is being issued to advise our parishes and institutions to be vigilant. Look out for unexpected deliveries or suspicious packages in or around parish facilities, churches and institutions. Before Mass, ushers should check pews and entryways for suspicious packages. We would like to emphasize that there has been no indication of any threat to our parishes or institutions in the Boston area; however, this alert is being issued as a precautionary measure.

In the event you have a concern regarding a package:
• Do not attempt to open or handle the package in any way
• Isolate the package
• If the package is in a room, open a window, leave the room and close the door
• Immediately contact local authorities - dial 911 and advise them of the situation
• As soon as practical, notify the priest on duty at the Pastoral Center
If you have any questions, please call the Office of Risk Management at 617-746-5745.