Travel Security Increased In Wake Of Brussels Attack

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- The deadly blasts in Brussels had many on edge across Europe and here in the U.S. Now police are beefing up their presence in public places and transit hubs across the country, including here in Maryland.

Ava-joye Burnett with the action now being taken.

Travelers will have to get used to more security, and we're not just talking about at airports.

The shocking attacks in Brussels have left many Americans on edge.

"It's absolutely scary and sad," said Danielle Maiala, Loyola senior.

From train stations to airports, security tight.

"It's definitely a little bit more terrifying being in an airport and being in this environment," one traveler said.

What used to be the norm is no more; extra security screenings for airline travelers could be right around the corner.

One major change is already here--more security at airports and train stations.

"It can happen anywhere in the world. The benefit here, fortunately, is that we put a lot of resources into the intelligence community," said William Bratton, NYPD commissioner.

A part of what makes airports and train stations so vulnerable is that there are a lot of people in one space, and no one really knows what's in every single bag.

"Terrorism is a constantly evolving threat," said Michael Vesely, University of Maryland.

Homeland security expert Michael Vesely tells WJZ it's also important that the federal government doesn't drop the ball when it comes to communicating with local police.

"The chain is only as strong as the weakest link," said Vesely. "So if there's a deficiency is some local security area, that's a target that becomes highly favorable for terrorism."

There are no specific threats against Maryland right now, but local law enforcement say they're prepared.

"The training for our police department and police departments across the state, for that matter, have really enhanced since 9/11, and we are continuously going through trainings year after year," said T.J. Smith, Baltimore City Police Department.

The FBI it's stepping up surveillance on terror suspects here in the U.S.