Virginia Homeland Security Terrorist Threat Conditions

Terrorist Threat Conditions Graphic

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SEVERE THREAT
RED LEVEL
IMMINENT RISK

Virginia Homeland Security Terrorist Threat Conditions -- Citizen Actions

Definition: A terrorist attack has occurred or credible and corroborated intelligence indicates that one is imminent. Normally, this threat condition is declared for a specific location or critical facility.

In addition to all previously mentioned precautions, citizens are advised to:

  • Report suspicious activities and call 9-1-1 for immediate response.
  • Expect delays, searches of purses and bags, and restricted access to public buildings.
  • Expect traffic delays and restrictions.
  • Take personal security precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime or terrorist attack.
  • Avoid crowded public areas and gatherings.
  • Do not travel into areas affected by the attack or is an expected terrorist target.
  • Keep emergency supplies accessible and automobile fuel tank full.
  • Be prepared to evacuate your home or shelter in place on order of local authorities.
  • Be suspicious of persons taking photographs of critical facilities, asking detailed questions about physical security or dressed inappropriately for weather conditions (suicide bomber). Report these incidents immediately to law enforcement.
  • Closely monitor news reports and Emergency Alert System (EAS) radio/TV stations.
  • Assist neighbors who may need help.
  • Avoid passing unsubstantiated information and rumors.

HIGH THREAT
ORANGE LEVEL
HIGH RISK

Virginia Homeland Security Terrorist Threat Conditions -- Citizen Actions

Definition: Credible intelligence indicates that there is a high risk of a local terrorist attack but a specific target has not been identified.

In addition to all previously mentioned precautions, citizens are advised to:

  • Resume normal activities but expect some delays, baggage searches, and restrictions as a result of heightened security at public buildings and facilities.
  • Continue to monitor world and local events as well as local government threat ad visories.
  • Report suspicious activities at or near critical facilities to local law enforcement agencies by calling 9-1-1.
  • Avoid leaving unattended packages or brief cases in public areas.
  • Inventory and organize emergency supply kits and discuss emergency plans with family members. Reevaluate meeting location based on threat.
  • Consider taking reasonable personal security precautions. Be alert to your surroundings, avoid placing yourself in a vulnerable situation, and monitor the activities of your children.
  • Maintain close contact with your family and neighbors to ensure their safety and emotional welfare.

ELEVATED THREAT
YELLOW LEVEL
ELEVATED RISK

Virginia Homeland Security Terrorist Threat Conditions -- Citizen Actions

Definition: Elevated risk of terrorist attack but a specific region of the USA or target has not been identified.

In addition to all previously mentioned precautions, citizens are advised to:

  • Continue normal activities, but report suspicious activities to the local law enforcement agencies.
  • Take a first aid or CERT class.
  • Become active in your local Neighborhood Crime Watch program.
  • Network with your family, neighbors, and community for mutual support during a disaster or terrorist attack.
  • Learn what critical facilities are located in your community and report suspicious activities at or near these sites.
  • Contact local officials to learn about specific hazards in your community.
  • ncrease individual or family emergency preparedness through training, maintaining good physical fitness and health, and storing food, water, and emergency supplies.
  • Monitor media reports concerning situation.

GUARDED THREAT
BLUE LEVEL
GUARDED RISK

Virginia Homeland Security Terrorist Threat Conditions -- Citizen Actions

Definition: General risk with no credible threats to specific targets.

In addition to all previously mentioned precautions, citizens are advised to:

  • Continue normal activities but be watchful for suspicious activities. Report criminal activity to local law enforcement.
  • Review family emergency plans.
  • Increase family emergency preparedness by purchasing supplies, food, and storing water.
  • Be familiar with local natural and technological (man made) hazards in your community.
  • Increase individual or family emergency preparedness through training, maintaining good physical fitness and health, and storing food, water, and emergency supplies.
  • Monitor local and national news for terrorist alerts.

LOW THREAT
GREEN LEVEL
LOW RISK

Virginia Homeland Security Terrorist Threat Conditions -- Citizen Actions

Definition: Low risk of terrorism. Routine security is implemented to preclude routine criminal threats.

In addition to all previously mentioned precautions, citizens are advised to:

  • Continue to enjoy individual freedom. Participate freely in travel, work, and recreational activities.
  • Be prepared for disasters and family emergencies.
  • Develop a family emergency plan.
  • Keep recommended immunizations up-to-date.
  • Know how to turn off your power, gas, and water service to your house.
  • Know what hazardous materials are stored in your home and how to properly dispose of unneeded chemicals.
  • Support the efforts of your local emergency responders (fire fighters, law enforcement and emergency medical service).
  • Know what natural hazards are prevalent in your area and what measures you can take to protect your family.
  • Volunteer to assist and support the community emergency response agencies.