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As with DHS's "See Something, Say Something" campaign, the new NTAS recognizes that Americans share responsibility for the nation's security and should be aware of potential threats and how to best respond to them.
"The terrorist threat facing our country has evolved significantly over the past ten years, and in today's environment - more than ever - we know that the best security strategy is one that counts on the American public as a key partner in securing our country," said U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano. "The National Terrorism Advisory System . . . will provide the American public with information about credible threats so that they can better protect themselves, their families, and their communities."
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The new NTAS alerts will provide clear, concise information on the nature of the potential threat, including geographic region, the mode of transportation or critical infrastructure potentially affected, actions being taken to ensure public safety, and recommended steps for individuals, communities, businesses, and governments to take to help prevent, mitigate, or respond to a threat.
Depending on the threat, alerts may be sent to law enforcement, distributed to affected areas of the private sector, or issued more broadly to the public through official and social media channels.
The new alerts will also contain a "sunset" provision indicating a specific date when the alert expires. Should a specific threat evolve or new information become available, alerts may be extended, but there will no blanket warning of an overarching threat.
For more information, or to receive NTAS alerts, visit www.dhs.gov/alerts.