TRAVEL AND TERRORISM

In light of the thwarted terrorist attack on a Northwest Airlines flight this Christmas, I feel compelled to share my thoughts on our security situation and how you can take charge of your own safety.  I was a few thousand miles from home, enjoying the holiday with family when I learned what had happened.  Like most of you, I couldn’t get enough of the non-stop coverage of the event, when suddenly a thought came to mind.  Who won?

Yes, the attempt was unsuccessful, bravery won out and everyone lived to tell the story, but what about the millions of people who spent a good deal of time on the holiday watching the news instead of spending it with family and friends.  Worse still were the countless television interviews with everyday Americans describing their fear of flying.  It was like watching us admit defeat.

So what can you do to turn the tide or at least regain some sense of control?

Be alert.  Observe those around you and report suspicious behavior.  Every recent attempt on a US flight was stopped by passengers on the plane, normal people like you and I and all they did was notice something funny.  So take off the headphones, put down the soduko and have a conversation with the person sitting next to you.  If you see something out of the ordinary just walk to the galley and let a flight attendent know (they are very discreet and better equipped to assess the situation) and you just might be the hero next time.

Have a plan.  I know you thought those pesky pre-flight saftey demonstrations  were merely meant to pass the time before you took off, but even if you’ve heard it 1000 times before, pay attention this time.  It has been proven that those who actively listen to the flight attendents, note their nearest exit and actually read the safety card are statistically more likely to survive a catastrophe.  That’s because when you are in a moment of crisis and your survival instinct takes over, your brain will replay this info and react more quickly.  I also encourage you to feel for the life preserver under your seat.  It not only verifies that it’s actually there, but it helps you to develop your own plan of action in an emergency.  (It’s location may also vary from plane to plane and by class of service)

Get in shape.  There is no better way to avoid feeling like a victim than taking a self-defense class.  Even if you aren’t going to go all Wesley Snipes on some unsuspecting terrorist, taking a class on some basic manuevers can help you regain a sense of control.  You’ll feel more confident and inspire others to do the same.

Fly!  The worst thing you can do is stop flying.  That’s exactly what they want.  Hey, how often can you send a message and have fun all at the same time.