US on alert on Independence Day

With a potential terrorist threat looming large over Europe, the Bush administration has stepped up security.

In line with its aviation security policy, the threat level at US airports has been raised to orange (the second of five levels), which indicates a high risk of terrorist attack.

Airports will deploy additional patrol units as America celebrates its Independence Day on Wednesday, July 4.

Besides, the number of air marshals on board flights has been increased.

On July 2, a secret US report, prepared for the Department of Homeland Security (America's home ministry), warned