COAST GUARD STEPS UP SECURITY IN ALASKAN SEAPORTS

COAST GUARD STEPS UP SECURITY IN ALASKAN SEAPORTS    The U.S. Coast Guard has tightened security in Alaska’s seaports and waterways in response to last week’s terrorist attacks.
   The agency has increased vessel boardings and harbor patrols, and is escorting certain dangerous cargo ships.
   “Although the terrorist threat in Alaska may be low compared to other parts of our nation, the consequences are simply unacceptable, so we stepped up security posture,” said Rear Adm. Tom Barrett, commander of the Coast Guard’s 17th District in Juneau.
   The Port Valdez is the agency’s top area of concern. Last week, the port was temporarily closed while security upgrades were put in place. Traffic soon resumed, but with tighter movement constraints and Coast Guard cutter presence, and increased security zones in the port.