Orange alert, sheilds up, charge phasers... - Terrorism bullshit alert going up.

[PollyannaFlower46]

To extend that line of thinking, I think they probably raise the level at times they're fairly sure NOTHING is going to happen, to make it look like the system is actually working.

I don't think so. I have some inside knowledge of what's going on, especially in New York City, and they don't do shit like that. Its a waste of time and resources. When the terror alert is raised, there are certain precautionary measures that must be put into place, which place a financial strain on our already shallow resources. I don't think our government is operating on a scare tactics (sp) basis with citizens, but if you can prove me wrong, I welcome it.