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 www.dhs.gov or www.whitehouse.gov/homeland.

The five Threat Conditions, from lowest to highest are:

=GREEN	(Low Condition)	There is a low risk of terrorist attacks.
=BLUE	(Guarded Condition)	There is a general risk of terrorist attacks.
=YELLOW	(Elevated Condition)	There is a significant risk of terrorist attacks.
=ORANGE	(High Condition)	There is a high risk of terrorist attacks.
=RED	(Severe Condition)	There is a severe risk of terrorist attacks.

Protective Measures, for each Threat Condition:

LOW Risk (GREEN):

aDevelop a family emergency plan. Share it with family and friends. Practice the plan.

aCreate an Emergency Supply Kit for your household.

aStay informed about changes in Threat Conditions.

aKnow how to shelter-in-place and how to turn off utilities to your home.

aKnow what hazardous materials are stored in your home and how to dispose of them.

aKnow what natural disaster hazards are prevalent in your area and protective measures.

aSupport the planning efforts of your local emergency responders.

aVisit these sites for assistance: www.ready.gov or www.redcross.org.

GUARDED Risk (BLUE):

aComplete all recommendations for lower levels listed above.

aReview stored disaster supplies and replace outdated items.

aBe alert to suspicious activity and report it to local law enforcement.

ELEVATED Risk (YELLOW):

aComplete all recommendations for lower levels listed above.

aEnsure disaster supply kit is stocked and ready.

aCheck telephone contact numbers in emergency plan and update as needed.

aDevelop alternate routes to and from work/school and practice them.

aContinue to be alert for suspicious activity and report it.

HIGH Risk (ORANGE):

aComplete all recommendations for lower levels listed above.

aExercise caution when traveling and pay attention to travel advisories.

aReview family emergency plan and make sure all family members know what to do.

aBe patient. Expect delays, baggage searches, and restrictions at public buildings.

aCheck on neighbors and others who might need extra assistance in an emergency.

SEVERE Risk (RED):

aComplete all recommendations for lower levels listed above.

aListen to and cooperate with local emergency management officials.

aStay tuned to TV, radio, or other media for current information and instructions.

aBe prepared to shelter-in-place or evacuate as instructed.

aExpect traffic delays and travel restrictions.

aProvide volunteer services only as requested and coordinated by emergency responders.

aContact your workplace/school to determine status of work day.