Triangle religious centers step up security in aftermath of shooting attack in California

Rabbi Zalman Bluming said he has been meeting with local law enforcement agencies for consultations and to get recommendations to step up security.

He said his congregation has done everything that was recommended by security experts -- and more.

"I can say we've gone beyond all recommendations to make sure that people can pray in peace," he said.

Bluming said it is a sad reality reality that places of worship must be proactive in enhancing security, given the mass shooting last year in Pittsburgh at a synagogue and the attack at a Charleston, South Carolina church in June 2015.

He said he knows some of the people who were inside that synagogue in California.

Chapel Hill police officials said officers from their agency will visit any local place of worship to provide guidance on things like which doors to lock, and when. and where to place security cameras.

The same is true at the Islamic Center of Raleigh, which also has a uniformed police officer on duty.

"We are beyond keeping anybody in our thoughts and prayers," said Islamic Center board member Mohamad El Gamal. "We have to do something."

So, security upgrades are constant.

"Security costs money, and this is a hardship," he said.

El Gamal says Raleigh police advised the center on security measures, like how to position cameras.

"It's sad in America this has to be our concern," he said. "But it's a concern we take forecefully and very strongly."