Duct tape alert

The duct tape alert refers to the recommendations made by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on February 10, 2003, that Americans should prepare for a biological, chemical, or radiological terrorist attack by assembling a "disaster supply kit", including duct tape and plastic (presumably to attempt to seal one's home against nuclear, chemical, and biological contaminants), among other items. ^[1][2][3]

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The recommendations came on the heels of an increase in the Department's official threat level to "orange", or "high risk", citing "recent intelligence reports". ^[4][5]

According to press reports, the recommendations caused a surge in demand for duct tape. ^[6]

The media sensation surrounding duct tape was fodder for comedians and satirists. Some referred to it as "duct and cover", a reference to duck and cover.

References

1. ^ Biological Weapons Fact Sheet. Department of Homeland Security.
2. ^ Chemical Weapons Fact Sheet. Department of Homeland Security.
3. ^ Radiological Dispersion Devices Fact Sheet. Department of Homeland Security.
4. ^ Remarks by Secretary Ridge, Attorney General Ashcroft, and Director Mueller. Department of Homeland Security.
5. ^ Threat Level Raised to Orange. Department of Homeland Security.
6. ^ Meserve, Jeanne (2003-02-11). Duct tape sales rise amid terror fears. CNN.com.