Terrorism is a concern for all Americans, including those who live in West Virginia. As you make your family emergency plan and disaster supplies kit, consider terrorism as one of the potential hazards to which you may need to respond. Although terrorism is less likely to occur than severe weather, flooding or accidental chemical spills, being prepared for any emergency is the best way to keep you and your family safe.

Homeland Security Advisory System:

Red: A Severe Condition reflects a severe risk of terrorist attacks.

Orange: A High Condition is declared when there is a high risk of terrorist attacks.

Yellow: An Elevated Condition is declared when there is a significant risk of terrorist attacks.

Blue: This condition is declared when there is a general risk of terrorist attacks.

Green: This condition is declared when there is a low risk of terrorist attacks.

With help from the American Red Cross, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security developed guidelines to help citizens understand what they can do to be safe and prepared at each Homeland Security Advisory level. Visit www.dhs.gov to learn more about the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the advisory system.

Green Level Recommendations
• Develop a family emergency plan. Share it with family and friends, and practice the plan.
• Visit www.Ready.gov for help creating a plan.
• Create an “Emergency Supply Kit” for your household.
• Be informed. Visit www.Ready.gov or obtain a copy of “Preparing Makes Sense, Get Ready Now” by calling 1-800-BE-READY.
• Know how to shelter-in-place and how to turn off utilities (power, gas, and water) to your home.
• Examine volunteer opportunities in your community, such as Citizen Corps, Volunteers in Police Service, Neighborhood Watch or others, and donate your time. Consider completing an American Red Cross first aid or CPR course, or Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) course.

Blue Level Recommendations
• Complete recommended steps at level green.
• Review stored disaster supplies and replace items that are outdated.
• Be alert to suspicious activity and report it to proper authorities.

Yellow Level Recommendations
• Complete recommended steps at levels green and blue.
• Ensure disaster supply kit is stocked and ready.
• Check telephone numbers in family emergency plan and update as necessary.
• Develop alternate routes to/from work or school and practice them.
• Continue to be alert for suspicious activity and report it to authorities.

Orange Level Recommendations
• Complete recommended steps at lower levels.
• Exercise caution when traveling, pay attention to travel advisories.
• Review your family emergency plan and make sure all family members know what to do.
• Be patient. Expect some delays, baggage searches and restrictions at public buildings.
• Check on neighbors or others that might need assistance in an emergency.

Red Level Recommendations
• Complete all recommended actions at lower levels.
• Listen to local emergency management officials.
• Stay tuned to TV or radio for current information/instructions.
• Be prepared to shelter-in-place or evacuate, as instructed.
• Expect traffic delays and restrictions. Provide volunteer services only as requested.
• Contact your school/business to determine status of workday.