Organizers work closely with CMPD for holiday event security

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Heightened security is on the minds of leaders in Charlotte as the city prepares for huge events, from the Panthers game to the annual Thanksgiving Day parade.

Planners expect about 100,000 people to watch the Tryon Street parade next week, and they said they are having ongoing conversations with CMPD about keeping spectators safe.

"We need to come together as Americans and make America a hard target, not a soft target ," security expert Walter Kimble said.

Kimble said last week's terror attacks in Paris should be a wake-up call showing the vulnerability of soft targets, described as public places where people can go with ease, like malls, churches or parades, all of which are popular during the holidays.

Charlotte Center City Partners is gearing up for the fourth-largest Thanksgiving parade in the nation in uptown Charlotte next week.

Channel 9 asked if organizers are boosting security.

"The safety and security of parade participants and all our guests is obviously our utmost concern," Adam Rhew, director of communications for Charlotte Center City Partners, said.

Rhew would not give specifics for safety reasons but said they are working closely with CMPD.

Kimble said authorities can harden targets by checking bags, identification and vehicles and also restricting public access to buildings.

"We can never let our guard down," Kimble said.

Experts also say citizens need to speak out if they witness strange behavior.

"I look at those kids rappelling into Bank of America Stadium, people sat there and watched them hook their ropes to chairs and didn't say anything. Come on, you've got to get involved," security expert Dan Starks said.

"Hometown security is homeland security," Kimble said.

Organizers are encouraging anyone with concerns or questions about security or logistics to download the Novant Thanksgiving Parade App.