VIDEO-Homeland security exercise taking place in Austin | KXAN.com

Updated: Wednesday, 07 Aug 2013, 10:28 PM CDTPublished : Wednesday, 07 Aug 2013, 9:32 PM CDT

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Multiple law enforcement agencies will be taking part in homeland security exercises in Austin over the next few weeks.

The Texas Department of Public Safety said several local and federal agencies will test response plans to possible terroristic threats and other critical incidents.

Authorities say you shouldn't be alarmed if you see a big increase in law enforcement officials on Austin's streets.

The exercise is meant to ensure various law enforcement agencies are prepared to protect citizens from any type of security threat or incident.

“Local, state and federal law enforcement entities work every day to combat crime and terrorism within Texas and beyond," said DPS Director Steven McCraw. "This proactive security exercise will further enhance our ability to protect our communities.”

Agencies taking part in the exercise include the Austin Police Department, Travis County Sheriff's Office, the University of Texas Police Department and the FBI.

http://www.kxan.com//dpp/news/local/austin/homeland-security-exercise-taking-place-in-austin