U.S. authorities stepped up security procedures around the country on Monday after officials raised the terror alert to the second highest level in advance of the Christmas holiday period. “There are very specific things. People who know what to do are doing them,” U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge said in an interview on the CBS “Early Show.” Authorities said extra security was being put in place at airports, ports and key buildings. “There will be more patrols over our harbors by the Coast Guard, at the airports where we have curbside or enhanced security. You’re going to see more patrols in the airport with dogs, parking restrictions,” he said in a separate interview on NBC’s Today show. Full Story