MacDill Air Force Base on high alert after suspicious package scare: what ‘FPCON Charlie’ means

TAMPA – MacDill Air Force Base in tampa ramped up safety Tuesday, transferring to Force Protection Condition (FPCON) Charlie.

That’s a major step up. It’s used when navy officers imagine a menace may very well be possible.

What we all know:

The change comes a day after crews discovered a suspicious package Monday morning close to the Dale Mabry Gate customer heart.

Base officers say somebody reported the package round 11:20 am First responders shortly blocked off the world and redirected visitors to the Bayshore Gate.

That disruption lasted a number of hours. Authorities cleared the scene simply earlier than 5 pm and reopened regular operations.

What we do not know:

The FBI remains to be investigating.

Officials have not stated what was contained in the package or whether or not it posed an actual menace.

FPCON Charlie is certainly one of 5 navy menace ranges, slightly below the very best degree, Delta.

At this degree, safety tightens throughout the bottom:

• More ID checks
• Fewer open gates
• More safety forces on web site
• People heading onto the bottom ought to count on delays and longer traces.

What they’re saying:

MacDill leaders are urging everybody on the idea to remain alert. “All personnel should remain vigilant, follow the direction of security forces, and report any suspicious activity immediately,” the bottom stated.

MacDill Air Force Base performs a significant function in US navy operations.

It’s dwelling to US Central Command and US Special Operations Command — making any shift in safety posture particularly essential.

READ: Major Cody Khork to return home to Polk County Wednesday, community prepares to honor fallen soldier

What’s subsequent:

Base officers say circumstances might change because the investigation continues.

They plan to share updates as quickly as new info turns into accessible.