March 31, 2003

Just after raising the nation's threat alert level to "orange," or "high," Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge announced the implementation of Operation Liberty Shield. Operation Liberty Shield is a comprehensive national plan designed to increase protections for America's citizens and infrastructure while maintaining the free flow of goods and people across our border with minimal disruption to our economy and way of life. Operation Liberty Shield is a multi-department, multi-agency, national team effort that includes the following elements.

Increased Security at Borders — More patrols, more escorts of passenger ships, more sea marshals, selective maritime restrictions, increased border surveillance, increased border screening, and asylum detainees.

Stronger Transportation Protections — Increased airport security, checking airport IDs, airspace controls, enhanced rail security for Amtrak and railroad infrastructure, increased railroad hazardous material safety, and enhanced road security.

Ongoing Measures to Disrupt Threats Against Our Nation — Monitoring terrorist suspects, tracking suspects, and identifying terrorist supporters.

Greater Protections for Critical Infrastructure and Key Assets — Protecting key economic centers and ports, safeguarding vital petro-chemical facilities, strengthening nuclear regulatory safeguards, and monitoring cyber'security.

Increased Public Health Preparedness — Increased disease surveillance and food security, including increased monitoring of imported food and the food chain in this country.

Federal Response Resources Positioned and Ready — Pre-positioned National Emergency Response Teams, incident teams, and DECON teams at the ready.

For more information, visit www.ready.gov.