Office of Public Affairs
U.S. Coast Guard Thirteenth District

DHS USCG BANNER

 

Press Release

Date: August 12, 2005

Contact: Lt. Cmdr. Rick Rodriguez

206-217-6065

LOWERING THE NATIONAL THREAT LEVEL FOR
THE MASS TRANSIT SECTOR

SEATTLE – Today the Department of Homeland Security announced that it was lowering the national threat level for the mass transit portion of the transportation sector from Code Orange, or "high," to Code Yellow, or "elevated."  

These changes will be effective today at 8:00 p.m.  Accordingly, the Coast Guard Captain of the Port in Seattle is lowering the Maritime Security level for large passenger ferries from level two to level one at the same time.

At this time, there is no specific, credible intelligence information indicating an attack to the ferry system.  However, the U. S. Coast Guard will continue to closely coordinate with the Washington State Ferry system, the Washington State Patrol and other federal, state and local law enforcement partners on identifying threats and addressing potential vulnerabilities in the mass transit sector. 

While ferry passengers may or may not notice a change in Coast Guard patrols and escorts, they can be sure that behind the scenes, the Coast Guard and its partners are working around the clock analyzing information, working with our partners and patrolling the waters to ensure the safety of Puget Sound.

While the threat level is being lowered at this time, the U. S. Coast Guard continues to urge state and local officials, transportation authorities and the general public to remain alert.  Vigilance is very important and we encourage all citizens on or near the region’s waterways to keep a watchful eye for items left unattended or suspicious activity and report these incidents to local authorities immediately or call 1-800-424-8802 or 1-877-24WATCH.  Remember: “See Something…Say Something!

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The U.S. Coast Guard is a military, maritime, multi-mission service within the
Department of Homeland Security dedicated to protecting the safety and security of America.

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