(Washington, DC) On August 1, the federal government increased the threat level to "high" for specific financial institutions in the District, New York City, and New Jersey, citing intelligence about a terrorist plot to strike with car or truck bombs.

The increase to orange, or “high” risk returns the alert level to the mid-range on the five-tier danger scale. The level was previously at yellow, or elevated. The DC Department of Health will continue to monitor the situation. Moreover, the Department emphasizes the need for all hospitals to assess their preparedness protocols.

It is recommended that local hospitals:

• Increase surveillance and conduct routine checks by full-time staff.
• Review surveillance, security, disaster, emergency communications and mass casualty plans to ensure their accuracy.
• Conduct communication drills with designated emergency response systems, and command locations.
• Report all suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities.
• Inventory all supplies and emergency equipment.
• Update emergency rosters and contact lists with 24/7 numbers.
• Identify and limit use of key entries to hospitals.
• Brief all hospital personnel of the recent heightened terror alert.

Editor’s Note:

Health Alert: Conveys the highest level of importance; warrants immediate action or attention.
Health Advisory: Provides important information for a specific incident or situation; may not require immediate action.
Health Update: Provides updated information regarding an incident or situation; unlikely to require immediate action.

As always, the DC Department of Health is available to assist local hospitals with their emergency needs. For more information about DOH's emergency response, please contact the Emergency Health and Medical Services Administration at (202) 671-0733. Media inquiries should be directed to Briant Coleman at (202) 671-0701 or bcoleman@dchealth.com.