Homeland Security Advisory System

The US Homeland Security Advisory System provides information about the risk of terrorist acts by using a set of graduated "Threat Conditions" represented by five different colors. Each color also has a corresponding set of recommended "Protective Measures" to reduce vulnerability or increase response capability. More information is available at the DHS or the Whitehouse DHS site.

Five Threat Conditions

The five threat conditions are listed below, from lowest to highest.

Color Condition Risks
Green Low There is a low risk of terrorist attacks.
Blue Gaurded There is a general risk of terrorist attacks.
Yellow Elevated There is a significant risk of terrorist attacks.
Orange High There is a high risk of terrorist attacks.
Red Severe There is a severe risk of terrorist attacks.

Protective Measures

LOW Risk (GREEN)

  1. Develop a family emergency plan. Share it with family and friends. Practice the plan.
  2. Create an Emergency Supply Kit for your household.
  3. Stay informed about changes in Threat Conditions.
  4. Know how to shelter-in-place and how to turn off utilities to your home.
  5. Know what hazardous materials are stored in your home and how to dispose of them.
  6. Know what natural disaster hazards are prevalent in your area and protective measures.
  7. Support the planning efforts of your local emergency responders.
  8. Visit these sites for assistance: www.ready.gov or www.redcross.org.

GUARDED Risk (BLUE)

  1. Complete all recommendations for lower levels listed above.
  2. Review stored disaster supplies and replace outdated items.
  3. Be alert to suspicious activity and report it to local law enforcement.

ELEVATED Risk (YELLOW)

  1. Complete all recommendations for lower levels listed above.
  2. Ensure disaster supply kit is stocked and ready.
  3. Check telephone contact numbers in emergency plan and update as needed.
  4. Develop alternate routes to and from work/school and practice them.
  5. Continue to be alert for suspicious activity and report it.

HIGH Risk (ORANGE)

  1. Complete all recommendations for lower levels listed above.
  2. Exercise caution when traveling and pay attention to travel advisories.
  3. Review family emergency plan and make sure all family members know what to do.
  4. Be patient. Expect delays, baggage searches, and restrictions at public buildings.
  5. Check on neighbors and others who might need extra assistance in an emergency.

SEVERE Risk (RED)

  1. Complete all recommendations for lower levels listed above.
  2. Listen to and cooperate with local emergency management officials.
  3. Stay tuned to TV, radio, or other media for current information and instructions.
  4. Be prepared to shelter-in-place or evacuate as instructed.
  5. Expect traffic delays and travel restrictions.
  6. Provide volunteer services only as requested and coordinated by emergency responders.
  7. Contact your workplace/school to determine status of work day.