The Department of Homeland Security uses a color-coded advisory system to alert the public of a risk of a terrorist attack. The higher the threat condition the greater the risk of a terrorist attack. The risk includes the probability of an attack and its potential gravity. It can be assigned for the entire country or a particular geographic area or industrial sector. Each agency is responsible for planning and preparing for an emergency.

This system is to alert everyone as to the potential for a terrorist attack. Even though you might not think Bennington is or has a target, it is important to be aware of the possibility of a terrorist attack - it could happen anytime and anyplace.

The following is the color coded system:

Some guidelines for everyone are:

Have an emergency plan; it might include things like:

• Know how to turn off your utilities
• Have food on-hand
• Know where to meet
• Have emergency power; generators, flashlights

You should also communicate with family, neighbors and friends

Be vigilant for anything unusual

Report anything unusual to your local emergency personnel (police, fire, medical)

Monitor local, national and world news

If requested, volunteer to assist emergency personnel

As threat level increases you should also be aware that:

Travel plans might have to be changed

Transportation might be delayed or cancelled

You should not leave baggage unattended

You should avoid crowded public areas

You should not travel to the threatened location

You might have to stay in a shelter

Always, and especially as the threat level increases, you should be prepared, monitor news, report any suspicious activity, communicate with each other and support your emergency personnel.

THESE THREAT LEVELS ARE TO ASSIST YOU IN PREPARING FOR AND KEEPING YOU INFORMED OF A POSSIBLE TERRORIST RISK. THEY ARE NOT INTENDED TO SCARE YOU. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE CONTACT YOUR LOCAL EMERGENCY PERSONNEL.