BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) -- Jewish leaders are stepping up security measures at synagogues across Buffalo ahead of Rosh Hashanah.

Known as the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah is a time of repentance and renewal for those of the Jewish faith. Ahead of the holiday next week, officials with the Buffalo Jewish Federation told WIVB News 4 that steps are actively being taken to increase safety.

"People are looking behind their back, they're worried about their friends and family, they're worried about themselves," said Rabbi Alex Lazarus-Klein with Congregation Shir Shalom. "This is something the Jewish community hadn't faced until about 5-6 years ago. Now, everything is different."

There's been a nearly 900% increase in antisemitic incidents across the country over the course of the past decade,

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