An American Shepherd?

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

... Starting next month, children in grades four though eight and employers nationwide will be asked to help get families and companies better prepared to respond to a crisis.

In schools, on the Internet and in television and radio ads, kids will be introduced to a Homeland Security mascot in the form of a dog, an American shepherd.

... Just as children learned to take shelter during a nuclear attack or bug their parents to quit smoking and wear seat belts, officials hope grade-school kids will prompt recalcitrant moms and dads to put together a plan.

You know, I don't believe I'd raise the old spectre of "duck and cover", if I were they. If they're looking for a success story to emulate, I believe I'd talk up Smokey the Bear.