[RobFromGa]

Because it is a goofy system that conveys very little real information

It mainly tells our Homeland Security team (police, fire, border, etc) to break out the Orange book and start communicating more, know where backups are, stay close, increase vigilance, etc.) It tells us people that we should pay attention as we go about our normal lives. So, the good part is you don't have to do anything. Got it?

[oceanview]

believe me, in a place like the NYC metro area, it helps. It makes the large number of police that we have here focus on doing a real job, rather then constantly focusing on writing tickets for various traffic and civil infractions.

[hoosierham]

NO,I don't "got it" as you suggest BECAUSE I am one of many,many people who could use specifics since our jobs include controlling who has access to dangerous substances in quantity.(But substances which are necessary to modern commerce.)