Homeland Security Advisory Condition: Severe (Red)
Severe Condition would be declared when specific intelligence indicates a very high potential for a terrorist attack.
Under most circumstances, the protective measures recommended for a Severe Condition are not intended to be sustained for long periods of time.
Recommended Actions: Individuals & Families
The American Red Cross and Critical Intervention Services recommend the following actions for civilians and families during periods of Severe Condition:
• Listen to TV or radio for current information/instructions
• Be alert for suspicious activity and report it to authorities immediately
• Contact business/school to determine status of work/school day
• Adhere to any travel restrictions announced by local governmental authorities
• Be prepared to implement emergency actions in response to terrorist attacks while at home or while in public (shelter-in-place, evacuation, etc.)
• Discuss children's fears concerning possible/actual terrorist attacks
• Anticipate travel delays and possible inconveniences due to increased security at airports, government buidlings, and at-risk facilities
Additionally, individuals and families should adhere to the recommended protective measures for High, Elevated, Guarded, and Low Conditions.
Recommended Actions: Government
The Department of Homeland Security recommends that Federal departments and agencies consider the following general measures in addition to any agency-specific Protective Measures that they will develop and implement:
• Increasing or redirecting personnel to address critical emergency needs;
• Assigning emergency response personnel and pre-positioning and mobilizing specially trained teams or resources;
• Monitoring, redirecting, or constraining transportation systems; and
• Closing public and government facilities.
These protective measures are recommended in addition to protective measures established for High, Elevated, Guarded, and Low Conditions.
Homeland Security Condition: Guarded
Homeland Security Condition: Elevated
Homeland Security Condition: High
Homeland Security Condition: Severe
