The National Retail Federation on Thursday said it has partnered with the Department of Homeland Security to involve retailers in a security information network as an attempt to help the United States against terrorism.

It new network is called the Homeland Security Information Network-Critical Infrastructure, and NRF is encouraging loss prevention and security executives at member companies to participate in the infrastructure. In addition, NRF says is responsible for assessing the credentials of retailers who apply and has already recruited the participation of close to 100 companies.

The infrastructure, established in 2004, uses a range of technology to send “real-time actionable” information to law enforcement, fire departments, local government, businesses, and others of potential terror threats, NRF says. The network also discusses day-to-day security issues. Participants are able to use the system to share information on suspicious activities with federal authorities. For more information, visit www.swern.gov/privatesector/NRF.php.

Joseph LaRocca, NRF vice president of loss prevention, was selected by a senior group within the DHS to serve on the HSIN-CI National Governance Board. LaRocca will spearhead the effort to increase the involvement of retail loss prevention professionals in the network.

JCK