Hoeven: State Terror Alert Level Raised To Orange At Airports
Hoeven: State Terror Alert Level Raised To Orange At Airports
BISMARCK, N.D. - In accordance with a directive from the federal Department of Homeland Security, Gov. Hoeven today raised the state's terror alert level to orange at the state's airports. The actions come in response to the arrest of 21 individuals in London who are suspected of plotting to blow up commercial airliners flying from the United Kingdom to the United States.
"At this point, the Transportation Safety Authority (TSA) has not made any specific orders for heightened activity in North Dakota," Hoeven said. "Airports and air carriers have been requested to review their individual security plans and take needed precautions, as is our state Division of Homeland Security. Travelers should go about their plans, while maintaining vigilance in their surroundings and exercising patience with screening and security officials."
Hoeven said pursuant to the red alert issued by the federal Department of Homeland Security, the state Division of Homeland Security is also issuing regular updates to the state's emergency managers and other personnel requesting that the public be especially vigilant, particularly when traveling by air.
In response to this announcement, the N.D. Division of Homeland Security requests the public to increase vigilance, particularly at airports, and report any suspicious activity to local law enforcement or the N.D. Homeland Security Fusion Center at 1-866-885-8295 or ndfusion@nd.gov.
* Due to the nature of the threat revealed by this investigation, airport screening checkpoints are prohibiting any liquids or gels of any kind, including beverages, hair gels, and lotions from being carried on the airplane.
* An exception is given for baby formula and medicines which must be presented for inspection at the checkpoint. Beverages purchased in the boarding area (beyond the checkpoint) must be consumed before boarding because they will not be permitted on board the aircraft.
* This determination will be constantly evaluated and updated when circumstances warrant.
* Travelers should also anticipate additional security measures within the airport and at screening checkpoints.
http://www.governor.state.nd.us/media/news-releases/2006/08/060810.html