How does the new system differ from earlier terrorism alerts?
They were general warnings to local law enforcement agencies to be on high alert for possible strikes. Officials would not say what color they would have merited. Under the new system, local officials will be given concrete advice on preventive steps to avert potential tragedies. Q: When was the last alert? A: The last national alert came on Feb. 11. Federal officials said terrorists might be planning something related to the following day. The date passed without incident. Q: Why are we only on a yellow, or middle, level of alert? A: Federal officials say there is no current threat indicating a specific date or target that warrants a higher level of preparedness. Q: Who sets the alert levels? A: Attorney General John Ashcroft, working with Homeland Security Director Tom Ridge and local officials, will assign threat conditions. Q: Will everyone be on the same level of alert? A: Not necessarily. The current threat condition applies nationally. But officials can assign higher levels by r
