Sochi ; Did We Overreact?

You can’t always win with the media. This time last week, the major broadcast stations were busy noting how many opportunities terrorist had when it came to the Olympics in Sochi, Russia. While there are always concerns about safety and the Olympics, it was a particular hot button issue for many reporters.

Today, the concern isn’t as strong and things seem to be going smoothly. This is when we, as a country, shouldn’t let our guard down. The media reporting on how safe everything is right now sets a tone of lax and could open us up to security issues. There is, it seems, no middle ground with the press.

As the owner of a Homeland Security company, I would like the media to really start thinking about the tone they develop with their reporting. We should have honesty, accuracy and a straight-forward approach. Over-hyping potential incidents can equate to crying wolf when nothing happens and leaving us less likely to take future threats seriously. Stating the security concerns are not as validate as they were the prior week is also dangerous. It can instigate a potential security threat, or worse yet- an attack.

As we head into the final days of the Olympics, I truly hope the media uses their power to help maintain an honest, open and level-headed approach when filing their future reports.

Until next time,

Twyla Garrett