Free Republic

NEW YORK, NY September 02, 2009 —Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano will be in New York today to unveil the Obama Administration's new national "Ready Campaign", aimed at improving household preparedness for emergencies and natural disasters. Today's national rollout comes several weeks after Napolitano appointed a panel to review the controversial five-color terror threat matrix, implemented by the Bush Administration. A report is expected next month. Currently the nation's threat level is set at "elevated" or code yellow. The threat level for all domestic and international air travel has been set at "high" or elevated.

COVER STORY 'RED' ALERT One man's "fear-mongering" on terror is another's "preparedness," but clearly the threats are taking their toll on the nation's psyche—particularly as Americans consider the possibility of terrorist retaliation after the first shots are fired in Iraq. But a plainspoken, ex-Army Sarge suggests that Americans put away the duct tape and plastic wrap and calmly learn to stay safeBy Lynn VincentAmerican policymakers and members of the United Nations debating society are not the only ones talking about VX nerve gas, anthrax, and other terrorist weapons. On a Southwest Airlines flight out of Phoenix last week, two couples,...

<p>The Homeland Security Department yesterday added paper towels, cotton shirts and table salt to the items Americans should lay in against a nuclear, chemical or biological attack.</p> <p>Even a good pair of running shoes is a good idea.</p> <p>"Don't be afraid," Tom Ridge, the secretary of the Homeland Security Department, said yesterday in Cincinnati. "Be ready."</p>

CINCINNATI -- What can you do to protect yourself against terrorism? In Cincinnati Wednesday, Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge will unveil a "Ready Campaign" to advise people on various steps they can take. (Ready.gov) Ridge has sought to assure Americans that the war on terrorism will be won by professionals, while adding that there are things citizens can do to protect themselves. The agency announced Monday that Ridge will outline the campaign at the offices of the Cincinnati chapter of the American Red Cross. Ridge said last week that he would announce Ready Campaign this week. "While your government is...

<p>WASHINGTON (AP) -- Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge is expected to announce Wednesday a government campaign that will advise families on what they can do to protect themselves against terrorism.</p> <p>The "Ready Campaign" will include public service announcements that will encourage families to have a communications plan so members can reach each other in an emergency; to make a supply kit with flashlights, batteries, water and other necessities; and to learn more about terrorism.</p>