Raleigh Police Chief Named To Committee To Advise Homeland Security Council

Perlov has been named to the President's Emergency Services, Law Enforcement and Public Health and Hospitals Senior Advisory Committee.

She was named to the committee by Homeland Security Advisor Tom Ridge, who she met in Washington on Tuesday. She's among an elite group of police, fire and medical experts who will serve on a first responders committee.

The purpose of the committee is to provide the President's Homeland Security Advisory Council with advice on increasing America's security from experts representing the nation's emergency response community.

Perlov had just completed 18 years of service as a New York police officer on the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The attacks occurred six days before she was sworn in as chief of the Raleigh police.

She said she wanted to help on the 11th, but she could only watch the attacks unfold.

Now, she has her chance to help.

Perlov said communication and cooperation are crucial in protecting our homeland. Her commitee will focus on three priorities:

"That is to prevent terrorist attacks, reduce our vulnerability and recover quickly from terrorist attacks," she said.

Perlov said the first responders commitee wants to move quickly, so the country will be prepared when the time comes.

Other members of the first responders committee include fire chiefs, emergency management officials, and medical and bio-tech experts.