Tuesday, April 26th, the nation said "goodbye to orange," when the Department of Homeland Security ended the old color-coded terrorism alert system with the new National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS), which is described as a robust terrorism advisory system that provides timely information to the public about credible terrorist threats.

The Department of Homeland Security released a public guide outline the new system, along with an example of an NTAS Alert that would be issued to the public if the government were to receive information about a specific or credible terrorist threat.

"The terrorist threat facing our country has evolved significantly over the past ten years, and in today's environment - more than ever - we know that the best security strategy is one that counts on the American public as a key partner in securing our country," said Secretary of Homeland Security, Janet Napolitano. "The National Terrorism Advisory System, which ws developed in close collaboration with out federal, state, local, tribal and private sector partners, will provide the American public with information about credible threats so that they can better protect themselves, their families and their communities."

Depending on the nature of the threat, alerts may be sent to law enforcement, distributed to affected areas of the private sector, or issued more broadly to the public through both official and social media channels - including a designated DHS webpage (www.dhs.gov/alerts), Facebook and via Twitter @NTASAlerts.  NTAS alerts and posters will also be displayed in places such as transit hubs, airports and government buildings.

For more information on the National Terrorism Advisory System or to receive NTAS alerts, visit www.dhs.gov/alerts.

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