As students struggle with the recently increased threat level to “code orange,” the Department of Homeland Security launched a new safety campaign to advise Americans what to do if an attack occurs.
“Make a kit. Make a plan. Be informed,” serves as the mantra of the Department of Homeland Security’s “Ready Campaign.”
Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge announced the new campaign Wednesday at the American Red Cross chapter in Cincinnati, according to the Associated Press.
The “Ready Campaign” launched two public service ads featuring Ridge telling Americans not to panic but to be prepared.
A Web site and a 1-800 number also were introduced to tell Americans how to protect themselves in the event of a terrorist attack.
“Its goal: to build a more prepared nation — one individual, one family, one neighborhood, one community at a time,” Ridge said in his speech.
Billy Gomila, a mass communication junior, said he thought the campaign was a good idea but doesn’t think anyone will listen to the advice.
“Every time they issue a terrorism report, it’s been another scare tactic; keep people scared enough and they’ll go along with whatever the administration wants,” said Neils Paulson-Thorp, a sophomore in physics.
Kevin Cowan, Louisiana Division of Operations and Homeland Security spokesman, said the program should make Americans feel more safe knowing they are prepared to survive in the event of an attack.
Be Prepared:
A phone number and Web site offer Americans more information. 1-800 BE READY allows Americans to order a preparation brochure The Web site www.ready.gov, gives instructions to prepare a household for a terrorist attack.
Cowan also said while people in Louisiana are more prepared for disaster because of hurricanes, the campaign is good for other parts of the country to get ready for any sort of disaster.
Officials said to store enough essential provisions to sustain a household for three days or longer. The Web site said each person will need a gallon of water per day and easily-prepared, long-lasting dried and canned foods. It also recommends a flashlight, radio, extra batteries, first aid kit and toilet articles on hand.
For clean air, the Web site said to be prepared to cover the nose and mouth to keep out harmful substances. The Web site said to “plan to use two to three layers of a cotton t-shirt, handkerchief or towel.” It said also to consider industrial filter masks for protection.
The “Be Informed” section of the Web site lists specific instructions and recommendations in the event of a biological, chemical or nuclear attack threat. It also offers instructions for what to do for fires, explosions or if trapped in debris.
The department tells what plans Americans need to make if an attack occurs, such deciding how family members will get in contact one another and reviews what to do in each disaster situation.