Homeland security talks to hotel guests

WASHINGTON, Nov. 2 (UPI) -- The Department of Homeland Security is turning to television and public service announcements to urge U.S. hotel guests to fight terrorism, officials said.

Starting Tuesday, guests turning the television on in their rooms in Marriott, Hilton, Sheraton, Holiday Inn and other hotels will see a welcome screen featuring a short PSA encouraging them to alert authorities if they notice something suspicious as they travel, USA Today reported.

Informing the "millions of guests that stay at hotels and motels each year is a significant step in engaging the full range of partners in our homeland security efforts," Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano said.

The PSAs will be seen in 5,400 hotels serviced by the television service LodgeNet.

A LodgeNet spokeswoman said the PSAs are "well done and professional" and that the decision to air them was not difficult.

"It's about everyone doing their part to help keep each other and the country safe," Ann Parker said.