Disposal Road, North Arlington, New Jersey

Right after this image was made, a police car pulled up, and a very overzealous cop grilled Fretz and me. Steve always says "You can beat the rap, but you can't beat the ride downtown. "This wasn't the cop who would get your kitty out of the tree. But we were respectful, and it was over after about 45 minutes. They ran checks on both of us. The biggest issue was they couldn't understand why we were taking pictures in the dark and/or they couldn't understand what we were taking pictures of. I offered at least 3 times to show the pictures on my camera but they weren't interested. Finally, I made up a very simple explanation of what we were doing and why and they understood. I also mentioned several times that we have done this a lot and we always check that roads are public access and we don't cross any no trespassing signs. It might have occurred to them that terrorists usually don't carry tripods but it didn't. Also, a lot of cops don't know what the law is regarding photography, but you should.

So, if you go into areas where there is some threat to infrastructure as perceived by the local constabulary my advice would be:

Always let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.

Do your due diligence and look up using Google Maps if there is public access to the place you want to go.

Park legally.

Do not trespass.

If you are with a companion make sure you both have your cell phones...because when it gets dark it's easy to get separated. Also good in a medical emergency.

If you are stopped by the Fuzz, keep your hands visible. Don't make the guy with the gun nervous.

You must have ID and you must show it to the police when asked.

You should be polite but don't be obsequious.

Text or call someone and let them know that you might be getting arrested and your location info.