by Jack
It’s a sad day when Christmas time equates to a prime target time for terrorism. But, we would be foolish to dismiss this reality and not be cautious of our surroundings. Everyone who gathers in large, congested areas should be mindful of their immediate area. Because this is where we can expect trouble. Bus stations, subways, sports arenas, shopping malls, airports, even crowded sidewalks are tempting targets for bomb attacks, knife or gun attacks or even vehicle assaults.
A number of years ago I walked into a pub in a small English town. Nearby in an adjacent town several IRA terrorists were on trial. I carried a plainly wrapped package and I placed it on the shelf above the coats. As I did, every head turned towards me and I could see the look of concern in their faces. Had I just walked out at that point, no doubt I would have emptied the bar. I was unknown person and I carried what could have been a bomb and these people were paying attention. But, I wonder how many Americans would have given my presence a second thought?
The point here is just have good situational awareness. You should do that anyway, to prevent thefts, muggings, simple assaults, etc. When you’re out walking, you should use the same level of awareness as when you’re driving. But, most American’s are oblivious when shopping or out socializing and they are so self focused they rarely notice anything.
I recall this high schooler playing a video game on his laptop inside McDonald’s when a shooting took place near the entrance. When the police interviewed him it was, “What shooting, we had a shooting?”
So, if you see something – say something. This simple idea could have prevented a number of terrorist attacks, including San Bernardino.
Was a travel agent and survived 21+ years of airfare wars. No matter what country you are traveling in, BE AWARE of what’s going on around you. Even if you are lost, don’t act like it as you become prey to those looking to capitalize on your errors. Always act to make others believe you know the lay of the land and where you are going.
And if you see something suspicious, say something to the cop, polizei, bobby or gendarme.
Oops – forgot to add . . . . There are 2 things you always want to know when traveling: Where is the bathroom, and where’s the Exit!
Good advice, Jack.
In keeping with the seriousness of your post, “ISIS Releases Hit List of US Churches to Target for Christmas- Previous List Included: NY, CA, TX and FL Churches”
You’re right that we should be aware…we also should be well informed.
We’re most likely quite safe here in Chico but some of our readers might be traveling to larger areas to visit family or friends.
There was an attack in Germany this week in a Christian market in the shadow of a beautiful old church. As sad as it is, the fact is, the current administration has made the people of the world and here at home more vulnerable to such abominable acts.
Food for thought here.