In the wake of this week's bombings at the Boston Marathon, the LAPD has said that public reporting is important in keeping communities safe.

The department cannot be everywhere at once, they said, and that cell phone photos, videos, and citizen tips are of great help when it comes to catching criminals.   The LAPD has indicated they will be stepping up security at upcoming events.  Bomb sniffing dogs will be employed and a greater than usual number of officers will be assigned to patrol duties. The counter terrorism unit is also working proactively to ensure that event goers are safe.

Chief Charlie Beck has asked that anyone who believes they see suspicious activity to please call police immediately.  "There are not enough officers to watch everyone," he said, and that public safety is everyone's responsibility.  Events that draw large crowds of people in a small area are often the hardest to patrol. It can be easy for a perpetrator to smuggle in a harmful device in a backpack or large bag.  There are many places to hide in big crowds, he said.

Maintaining pubic safety is an ongoing and collaborative effort.  Surveillance cameras are used, trained professionals are on the ground and significant resources are dedicated.  Undercover and plain clothes officers are also deployed to help law enforcement ramp up their efforts.   Beck, though, has continued the stress the importance of citizens and how critical a role they play in keeping people safe.