As the nation remains on high terrorist alert, local emergency agencies are taking precautions to ensure residents' safety.
The Norman Police and Fire Departments are preparing themselves for biological and chemical scenarios, and Norman Regional Hospital is ready for any situation involving hazardous materials.
U.S. officials raised the nation's terrorism alert system last Friday but are concerned an attack may happen now that hajj, the annual Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca, is finished.
Norman police have increased patrols around government buildings such as downtown's Municipal Building. They are watching Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, Norman's water treatment plant and Norman Dam more closely as well, Sgt. Kevin Foster said. He said officers are being more thorough while patrolling these potential targets.
Without major landmarks or government agencies, Norman does seem less prone to an attack than larger cities.
"This is a university town. It has a lake with a dam," Foster said. "I would assume they'd (terrorists) hit a bigger place, but you never know."
The Norman Fire Department has been developing plans to respond to a possible terrorist attack since Sept. 11, said Johnny Vaughn, interim fire chief.
"We are staying abreast of alerts and cautions," he said. "The recent high alert has just brought this back to the table."
The department has purchased special suits which would protect fire fighters dealing with hazardous materials, and they are undergoing extensive training, Vaughn said.
The fire department is able to identify what a hazard is in order to evacuate a contaminated area. They will undergo additional training which will build on these skills.
However, Norman has never had to respond to any type of serious threat, making exercises a first for many of the department's personnel.
"A biological attack is something we just don't have experience with," Vaughn said.
Norman Regional Hospital, with 288 beds, has prepared disaster plans as well, said Grant Farrimont, hospital spokesman.
The hospital conducts hazardous material drills many times a year to prepare for the care of local residents.
"We have considered it (attacks), thought it through and are prepared," Farrimont said.
People are advised to keep a supply kit stocked in case of emergency, Vaughn said. The kit should contain a battery-operated radio and flashlight, water and enough food for three days, Vaughn said.
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