Homeland Security raises aviation threat level

Homeland Security raises aviation threat levelAugust 10, 2006SU News ServicesSUnews@syr.edu

Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff on Aug. 10 announced a targeted elevation in the threat level for the aviation sector in response to the arrest of individuals in the United Kingdom in an alleged terror plot to target multiple commercial flights from the United Kingdom.

These individuals planned to carry bomb components, including liquid explosives, onto commercial airplanes.

The threat level has been raised to Code Red, or Severe, for flights originating in the United Kingdom bound for the United States. The threat level for all commercial aviation operating in or destined for the United States has been raised to Code Orange, or High. The rest of the United States remains at Code Yellow, or Elevated.

In addition, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced that it is implementing a series of security measures — some visible and some not visible — to ensure the security of the traveling public and the U.S. transportation system. These security measures include the prohibition of all liquids and gels of any kind in carry-on baggage. These items must be in checked baggage. The only exceptions are baby formula, breast milk or juice if a baby or small child is traveling; prescription medicine with a name that matches the passenger’s ticket; and insulin and essential other non-prescription medicines.

For additional information on these security measures, visit http://www.dhs.gov/dhspublic/.

Syracuse University remains in regular contact with local, state and federal authorities to monitor changes in the national alert status. For information on campus emergency resources and preparation, visit http://sunews.syr.edu/EmergencyPreparedness/QA.html.