New Jersey Transit passengers can now send text messages to alert authorities about suspicious activity.

The nation's third-largest transit system on Thursday announced its "Text Tips" or "Text Against Terror" initiative.

NJ Transit Police Chief Christopher Trucillo says passengers and employees are the first line of defense in the war against terror. The chief says the program harnesses the prevalence of text-messaging among customers.

Passengers can text NJTPD or 65873.

Customers are encouraged to provide as much information as possible, such as the location and nature of the suspicious activity or package.

They may receive a follow-up text message for more information. 

NewsdayTV's Doug Geed visits two wineries and a fish market, and then it's time for holiday cheer, with a visit to a bakery and poinsettia greenhouses. Credit: Randee Dadonna

Out East with Doug Geed: Wine harvests, a fish market, baked treats and poinsettias NewsdayTV's Doug Geed visits two wineries and a fish market, and then it's time for holiday cheer, with a visit to a bakery and poinsettia greenhouses.

NewsdayTV's Doug Geed visits two wineries and a fish market, and then it's time for holiday cheer, with a visit to a bakery and poinsettia greenhouses. Credit: Randee Dadonna

Out East with Doug Geed: Wine harvests, a fish market, baked treats and poinsettias NewsdayTV's Doug Geed visits two wineries and a fish market, and then it's time for holiday cheer, with a visit to a bakery and poinsettia greenhouses.

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