Olympics tip: ‘Be careful what you say’

Rep. Bill Keating (D-Ma.) urged Americans on Thursday who are attending the Olympics to “be careful what you say” while out in public.

Keating has been briefed on the security threats as a member of the House Homeland Security Committee. He traveled to Sochi, Russia, last week to inspect safety preparations for the Winter Games, which start Thursday night.

The congressman warned Americans to be wary of their comments, especially if they’re related to lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT) issues.

“Be careful what you say if you have comments publicly, whether they’re LGBT issues, because there are different laws there and different enforcements,” he said Thursday on MSNBC’s “Jansing & Co.”

{mosads}The Obama administration has also warned Americans to be aware of Russia’s ban on propaganda that promotes homosexuality.

“The U.S. government understands that this law applies to both Russian citizens and foreigners in Russia. Russian citizens found guilty of violating the law could face a fine of up to 100,000 rubles ($3,100). Foreign citizens face similar fines, up to 14 days in jail, and deportation,” a recent State Department alert said.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has said gay athletes are welcome to participate in the games, which begin on Friday.

As far as terror threats, Keating advised Americans that attacks are more likely to happen on “softer targets” outside of the “ring of steel” guarding the Olympic village in Sochi. Americans should also leave their smartphones at home, Keating added.

“If people are bringing their phones, bring a disposable phone. They’re not like the U.S in terms of just penetrating social networking. Those kinds of conversations.”

House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Mike McCaul (R-Texas) also said on Thursday there is a “specific and credible threat” that terrorists might bring bombs disguised as toothpaste tubes onto flights heading to Russia.