Homeland Security steps up protection for U.S. government buildings

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The U.S. Homeland Security Secretary is ordering increased protection at many U.S. government buildings in Washington, Chicago and elsewhere following the recent attacks in Canada and increasing terrorist threats.

The head of Homeland Security says this is a precautionary step to safeguard U.S. government buildings, employees and visitors. The Federal Protective Service has been ordered to enhance its presence at some of the facilities, of which there are more than 9,500, including some facilities in Chicago. But some wonder if that agency is capable of providing the necessary increase in security.

The Federal Protective Service, which is charged with keeping these buildings safe, is understaffed according to agency officials. It is composed of about 1,000 sworn law enforcement personnel across the country and 13,000 contract guards who handle the bulk of the daily security.

A recent inspector general's report to Congress cited poor risk assessment for government offices and workers. The report also said that many of the contract security guards were not properly trained, or were untrained for active shooters and for public screening of building visitors, and found no reliable security guard oversight by federal government officials.

There are 55,000 federal government workers in the Chicago region. While the more far-flung and nondescript locations are not likely to see a show of force, Homeland Security officials tonight say they will be rotating the increased attention and won't announce who is getting what.