By H. Wicai, KWMU
Jefferson City, MO – Missouri's Homeland Security Director, Tim Daniel, says the state has to balance the intelligence received with resources available.
Daniel says Missouri could spend an infinite amount of resources on things that might be of interst to a terrorist; the challenge is doing the appropriate thing. But, he says the intelligence is getting better every day.
Daniel expects the orange terror alert level to last at least two weeks but he says it could last longer with the threat of looming war in Iraq.
Daniel adds that as the US gets closer to a conflict with Iraq citizens have to be serious about threats. However he says Americans shouldn't change their daily lives.
Echoing National Homeland Security Director Tom Ridge, Daniel says Missouri families should have a communication plan in place, including establishing a meeting point if phone service - including cell phone services - went down. He says if another attack happens it's possible officials will ask Americans to stay at home for a few days. So he advises having an extra supply of necessary medications, and a 7-day supply of food and water on hand.