Hey! Let's Get the Whole Family Scared!

Duck and Cover, 2004 style.

Ad campaign urges employers, families to plan for emergency

WASHINGTON - The Homeland Security Department is enlisting allies in its effort to prepare the nation for another terrorist attack: your kids and your boss.

Starting next month, children in grades 4 though 8 and employers nationwide will be asked to help get families and companies better prepared to respond to a crisis. (Related story: Administration says attack averted)

In schools, on the Internet and in TV and radio ads, youngsters will be introduced to a new Homeland Security mascot: a dog (an American shepherd) that will be named in a contest. The campaign, using the dog and a set of Ad Council advertisements, will encourage families to develop an emergency plan and talk about where kids should go, who will pick them up and how they will make contact.

Let's name him something lovable, kids. How about...Tom Ridge?