Homeland Security
Homeland security refers to governmental actions designed to prevent, detect, respond to and recover from acts of terrorism or other national security threats to a country’s home territory, domestic population, or critical infrastructure. The term became prominent in the United States following the September 11, 2001 attacks; it had been used only in limited policy circles prior to these attacks. Before this time, such action had been classified as civil defense.
Homeland security is officially defined by the National Strategy for Homeland Security as “a concerted national effort to prevent terrorist attacks within the United States, reduce America’s vulnerability to terrorism, and minimize the damage and recover from attacks that do occur,”. Because the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) includes the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), it has responsibility for preparedness, response and recovery to natural disasters as well.
The scope of homeland security includes:
- Emergency preparedness and response (for both terrorism and natural disasters), including volunteer medical, police, Emergency Management and fire personnel;
- Domestic intelligence activities, largely today within the FBI;
- Critical infrastructure protection;
- Border security, including both land and maritime borders;
- Transportation security, including aviation and maritime transportation;
- Biodefense;
- Detection of nuclear and radiological materials;
- Research on next-generation security technologies.
What is Terrorism?
The unlawful use of force and violence against persons or property to intimidate or coerce a government, the civilian population or any segment thereof, in furtherance of political or social objectives.
There are things you can do to prepare for the unexpected and protect your home and family from the possibility of terrorist acts. Talk with your family about the threat of terrorism. Create a disaster plan. Taking action before problems arise can reassure you and your children that you can be in control even in the face of such uncertain events.
What to Do If a Terrorist Event Takes Place
- Remain calm and be patient.
- Follow the advice of local emergency officials.
- Listen to your radio or television for news and instructions.
- If the disaster occurs near you, check for injuries. Give first aid and get help for seriously injured people.
- If the disaster occurs near your home while you are there, check for damage using a flashlight. Do not light matches or candles or turn on electrical switches. Check for fires, fire hazards and other household hazards. Sniff for gas leaks, starting at the water heater. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the main gas valve, open windows, and get everyone outside quickly.
- Shut off any other damaged utilities.
- Confine or secure your pets.
- Call your family contact. Do not use the telephone again unless it is a life-threatening emergency.
- Check on your neighbors, especially those who are elderly or disabled.
- Talk with your children about terrorism.
- Encourage children to say how they are feeling about the event.
- Ask children what they have seen, heard, or experienced.
- Assure children that you are taking care of them and will continue to help them deal with anything that makes them feel afraid.
- Empower them by making them part of creating a family emergency plan.
- Help children recognize when they have shown courage in meeting a new scary situation and accomplished a goal despite hardship or barriers. Instill a sense of empowerment.
- Let children know that institutions of democracy are still in place and our government is intact. (It can also be helpful for adults to realize this.)
- Know that it is possible for children to experience fear and anxiety from the terrorist attack from watching TV coverage or overhearing adult conversations.
Homeland Security Advisory System
Low
- Develop a family emergency plan. Share it with family and friends, and practice the plan.
- Create an “Emergency Supply Kit” for your household. 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.
Guarded
- 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.
Elevated
- 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.
High
- 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.
Severe
- 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 work day.