NEW HOMELAND SECURITY (TERROR) ADVISORY SYSTEM

April 23, 2011

If you have not heard already the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has implemented a NEW Terror Alert/Threat Level System, called the National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS).  This will replace the Color-Code system, which will be completely discontinued. Below is a summary of information regarding this new system.

 “Washington, D.C. - Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano today announced that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will discontinue the color-coded alerts of the Homeland Security Advisory System (HSAS) in favor of a new system, the National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS), that will more effectively communicate information about terrorist threats by providing timely, detailed information to the public, government agencies, first responders, airports and other transportation hubs, and the private sector.”

There are only two Alert Levels with the new system: “Imminent” and “Elevated”

o       Example of an Official Threat Alert Release: http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/ntas/ntas-sample-alert.pdf 

o       The link to the official website is: http://www.dhs.gov/files/programs/ntas.shtm In addition to an overview, ANYYONE can sign-up to receive alerts through various mediums.  

o       DHS has requested all parties to:

§         Remove any postings (hard-copy/electronic) of the Color-Code System

§          Post the new (NTAS) system and/or website link to the NTAS

§          Campaign to educate the public on the new (NTAS) system

§          Share (forward this email) information with all parties (committee members, employees, family, etc)