January 9, 2004

[Lansing, MI] – Nearly three weeks after the Homeland Security Threat Level was raised to Orange, the Department of Homeland Security has today announced that the threat level is being lowered to the Elevated Condition (Yellow). An Elevated Condition is declared when there is a significant risk of terrorist attacks.

"Based on a careful review of the available intelligence, we have lowered the threat level to Yellow", said Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge. "With the passing of the holidays and many large gatherings that occurred during this time, we have made the decision to come down to Yellow."

Even though the threat level has been lowered, officials continue to stress that activity taking place now is part of the homeland security infrastructure already in place. The Michigan State Police Emergency Management Division continues monitoring events around the state to ensure the safety of Michigan’s residents, visitors and businesses.

"I continue to be impressed by the level of competency within our emergency preparedness and response community," stated Colonel Tadarial J. Sturdivant, Director of the Michigan State Police and Michigan’s Homeland Security Director. "Citizens can be assured that we have spent the past weeks engaged in key aspects of our homeland security preparedness and response efforts, making us well-prepared to respond if that should ever be necessary."

Although the threat level has been lowered, the state is still recommending the following general measures:

• It is recommended that Michigan residents take time to review your family preparedness plans. If you do not have one, take time to develop one.
• Do not hesitate to contact any law enforcement agency to report any suspicious activity. Report suspicious packages, devices, unattended briefcases, or other unusual materials immediately; do not handle or attempt to move any such object. Report suspicious vehicles and/or erratic behavior of occupants.

The Michigan State Police will continue to maintain open lines of communication with the Department of Homeland Security and other federal, county and local agencies concerning information regarding any possible terrorist threats.

Additional information regarding Michigan’s homeland security efforts can be found at the Emergency Management Division’s website located at: www.michigan.gov/emd