The threat system has been at level 'yellow,' for elevated, since 2006, and critics note that it doesn't help citizens decide how to act in the event of a potential terrorist attack, and instills complacency by always indicating a threat level.
Under the new system announced last week, DHS will issue written warnings of an 'Elevated Threat' indicating there is information about a credible terrorist threat or an 'Imminent Threat' about a specific, impending threat.
The new system is an attempt to focus responses on areas where an actual threat exists. The alerts will provide information about the geographic region, mode of transportation, or critical infrastructure potentially affected by the threat and recommended actions for the public, local governments and the private sector to help prevent, mitigate or respond to the threat.
