"In order to ensure the Special Event Data Call properly conducts a preliminary assessment of events, the DHS SEWG has developed a questionnaire for individuals at the state and local level who are users of the system and entering their special event data. Once the data call is closed, the events are run through the risk methodology program, which analyzes response criteria captured by the questionnaire and assesses stages of threat, consequences and vulnerabilities for the event. This results in preliminary Special Event Assessment Rating (SEAR) level results, which are categorized as SEAR Levels 1-5". (DHS, Statement of Rufe, July 9, 2008, pp. 2-3). "An event is considered to be a SEAR Level 1 when it is an event of significant national and/or international importance that may require extensive Federal interagency security and incident management preparedness. Pre-deployment of Federal assets as well as consultation, technical advice and support to specific functional areas in which the state and local agencies may lack expertise or key resources may also be warranted. In order to ensure unified Federal support to the local authorities and appropriate national situational awareness, a Federal Coordinator (FC) will be designated, and an Integrated Federal Support Plan (IFSP) will be developed. A SEAR Level 2 event is a significant event with national and/or international importance that may require direct national-level Federal support and situational awareness. The magnitude and significance of these events calls for close coordination between Federal, state, and local authorities and may warrant limited pre-deployment of USG assets as well as consultation, technical advice and support to specific functional areas in which the state and local agencies may lack expertise or key resources. In order to ensure unified Federal support to the local authorities and appropriate national situational awareness, a Federal Coordinator (FC) will be designated and an Integrated Federal Support Plan (IFSP) will be developed. On the other hand, SEAR Level 3, 4 and 5 events do not have a FC identified nor an IFSP generated, however, State and local officials may still solicit resources from Federal agencies at the agencies expense. Regardless of the SEAR Level designation assigned, the Federal government can remain involved with the special event. DHS will maintain awareness of all special events through reporting produced by the National Operations Center (NOC). In addition, State and local planners may request support for their events from the Federal Departments and Agencies located near the event". (DHS, Statement of Rufe, July 9, 2008, p. 3)