Secure Oklahoma N.O.W.
Protecting Oklahoma One Event at a Time
Overview
On January 13, 2025, Governor Kevin Stitt issued Executive Order 2025-02 establishing the Secure Oklahoma NOW (Not on Our Watch) Initiative, a proactive effort to enhance Oklahoma’s preparedness against terrorist threats and acts of targeted violence. The order charges the Department of Public Safety, in consultation with the newly established NOW Advisory Council, with publishing industry-standard security protocols for large events to be used by organizers of such events and law enforcement agencies statewide. This announcement underscores the Governor's commitment to safeguarding Oklahomans and critical infrastructure across the state.
“Sadly, Oklahomans are familiar with the devastating impact terrorists can have on our communities. In the wake of the attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans on New Year’s Day, it’s our responsibility to stay vigilant and prepared,” said Governor Stitt. “The Oklahoma Department of Public Safety will bring together experts from law enforcement, emergency management, and public safety to develop a comprehensive guide to protect our high-value targets and major events, ensuring we are always one step ahead.”
Read Executive Order 2025-02 in full here.
Objective
The guide will serve as an industry-standard resource to enhance security planning and implementation for large events and high-risk sites across Oklahoma. The Department of Public Safety, in coordination with the Advisory Commission, will ensure wide distribution of the guide to relevant stakeholders.
Advisory Council
The Advisory Council is chaired by the Commissioner of Public Safety, Tim Tipton, and the Initiative is under the supervision of the Oklahoma Secretary of Public Safety, Tricia Everest. Additional members include state and local law enforcement representatives, university police, fire services, emergency management, and counterterrorism intelligence.
“Ensuring the safety of Oklahomans at large-scale public events is a top priority,” said Commissioner of Public Safety Tim Tipton. “The formation of this advisory council marks an important step in strengthening and streamlining our state’s security measures. By bringing together experts and stakeholders, we will develop proactive, effective recommendations to safeguard eventgoers and our communities. Oklahomans deserve to enjoy events in our state without worrying about safety and security."