Safe and Secure

Jane’s (the defense and intelligence publisher) reports that US subways and mass transit are vulnerable to terrorist attack.

Security is the watchword for US mass transit systems

Subways are uniquely vulnerable terrorist targets. Large numbers of passengers crowd into tightly confined spaces at regular and well-known times. Subway systems are routinely located either deep below ground or else above street level. Furthermore, high-explosive blasts within confined areas greatly increase casualty figures, something we have unfortunately seen in the disparity between the mortality rate at Russell Square and that of Aldgate station during the 7 July attacks on the London Underground. Scenarios involving the potential use of chemical, biological, or radiological agents in a subway system are even more horrifying.

A cell phone is an important tool for safety and security away from home. Here’s one more way it can help:

Washington Examiner: Opinion

a British paramedic suggests that people add ICE 1, ICE 2, etc. (”in case of emergency”) to their cell phone’s personal directory to alert emergency personnel as to which family members or friends to call. It will take only a minute. But if you ever find yourself with paramedics standing over you wondering whom to contact, you’ll be glad you took the time.