There are five Threat Conditions, each identified by a description and corresponding color. Select a color-coded warning level below for some suggested protective measures that residents, businesses, and federal departments and agencies should take to prepare for, or respond to, a national emergency. The current condition is marked with a dark border. From highest to lowest, the levels and colors are:

The DC Emergency Management Agency (DCEMA) has a Homeland Security Terrorist Threat Conditions System that mirrors the national Homeland Security Threat system. Like the national system, the DC advisory system color-codes threat levels for easy understanding. Unique in the District system are suggested precautions (guidelines) for DC residents and businesses to take for each threat level. These suggested precautions provide general guidance only. They can help organizations and families take actions best tailored for their needs.