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HOMELAND SECURITY ADVISORY SYSTEM RECOMMENDATIONS

In today’s day and age of terrorism, it is important to make sure that you are prepared to take actions, should you be instructed to do so. The key is to be prepared so that you know what to do if a Homeland Security Advisory is issued. Keep in mind that response to biological threats is similar to that of hazardous materials incidents, for which local, state, and federal authorities have responded to for decades. The agents are different, and the tools to detect those agents are different, but the potential consequences, and the response to those consequences, are generally the same. The level of preparedness of public is crucial. Please use the following recommended actions to serve as a guide for what you should do, as an individual, to prepare yourself when a Homeland Security Advisory is Issued.  

RISK LEVEL

RECOMMENDED ACTIONS

 

 SEVERE

(Red)

  • Complete actions at lower levels
  • Listen to radio / TV for current instructions
  • Be alert to suspicious activity and report it to authorities immediately
  • Contact business to determine status of work day
  • Adhere to any travel restrictions announced by local government authorities
  • Provide volunteer services only as requested

 

 

HIGH

(Orange)

  • Complete actions at lower levels
  • Be alert to suspicious activity and report it t property authorities
  • Review your personal disaster plan
  • Exercise caution when traveling
  • Have shelter in place materials on hand (refer to www.ready.gov for list of needed materials)
  • Prior to volunteering, contact agencies to determine needs

 

 

 ELEVATED

(yellow)

  • Complete actions at lower levels
  • Be alert to suspicious activities and report it to proper authorities
  • Ensure disaster supplies kit is stocked and ready
  • Check telephone numbers and email addresses in your personal communications plan and update as necessary
  • Develop alternate routes to and from work / school and practice them
  • Prior to volunteering, contact agencies to determine needs

 

 

GUARDED

(Blue)

 

  • Complete actions at lower levels
  • Be alert to suspicious activity and report it to proper authorities
  • Review stored disaster supplies and replace items that are outdated
  • Develop emergency communication plan with family / neighbors / friends
  • Prior to volunteering, contact agencies to determine needs. Take advantage of volunteer training as made available

 

 LOW

(Green

 

  • Prepare an individual / family disaster supplies kit (include pets) Information on developing a family disaster supplies kit can be found in the Charlotte County All Hazards Handbook or at www.ready.gov
  • Avail yourself of volunteer training opportunities through the American Red Cross or other agency.