The alert system is mostly in place so that governmental agencies know and understand the level of attention in which they must place when it comes to the general safety of the civilians of the United States. While these civilians are able to view the level of threat that the nation is at during any given time, there is only a simple list of precautionary measures that should be taken by this group.

Governmental officials and agencies work to ensure heavy monitoring of certain areas, pay close attention to intelligence reports, and attempt to ensure that public places and governmental facilities are properly protected when the alert level increases.

The following represents actions that citizens are urged to take as the terror alert level increases in the nation:

1. It is suggested that individuals create an emergency plan that specific relates to terror related activities that may occur in and/or around the area in which they live, work, and play.

2. Naturally, when an emergency plan is put into place, it is important that a kit is created to work in conjunction with the plan.

3. Citizens are urged to contact the following number if the terror alert escalates in order to learn more about preparation: 800-Be-Ready

4. Special attention should be made to the media for updates from the Emergency Broadcast System when the chart reflects that of orange or red.

5. An evacuation plan must be put in place. If the community puts an evacuation plan in place due to a heightened terror alert, citizens should be prepared to follow instructions by local government officials and act quickly to ensure their safety, as well as the safety of others.

As you can see from the information contained here, the system developed by the United States Government is an effective means of ensuring not only the safety of the citizens of the nation, but the nation as a whole.