How Safe Are You on a Bus Without Video Security and Backup Systems?
The Nastiest Pick-Ups
The gruesome crime committed on board a passenger bus serves as a warning to all. The hideous beheading in the bus is an indication that video security cameras inside the vehicle could have alerted the bus driver and the other passengers that someone was fighting for his life.
Still this would not have prevented the crime because as killings go, these happen faster than the blink of an eye. But if the bus had alert security people onboard to beef up video security, the young man could have been saved. The unfortunate incident reveals the gaps in public transport safety.
Buses pick up fares at bus stops and anybody with a deadly weapon can get in without detection. There are no strict watches at the bus stops and metal detectors are not available to alert the bus driver to restricted items. Anybody can get on the bus - drunks, thugs, blood-thirsty maniacs and other lowlifes - and sit next to you!
How Safe are You on the Bus?
Airlines are strict about air safety to the point of paranoia; land public transport should be as vigilant because terrorists are not the only public threat; psychos and other oddballs are a growing menace and they can get on buses and trains anytime and anywhere.
These crimes can happen on public transport:
* Bombs left to detonate
* Unwanted sexual advances
* Robberies
* Harassment
* Lynching
Anybody can be victimized while other passengers can only watch in fear and frustration. With no alarms or alerts, passengers are left to fend for themselves if criminal elements pounce on them. The presence of video security camera systems will only record the scene but if this is backed up with an automated alarm system and if there are competent security officers strategically positioned in the public ride, criminals will back off.
How to Stay Safe in Public Buses without Video Security Cameras
If you or members of your family frequently take bus or train rides, take steps to protect yourselves. These tips should help you and your family while on the road:
What you should do:
* Stay cool when your cell phone rings; becoming flustered just distracts your attention.
* Bring an umbrella; this can be used as weapon. Petty thieves and rapists avoid women with umbrellas.
* Stay alert during the trip if you are traveling alone. Pickpockets prey on sleeping passengers.
* Avoid looking at your bag; this gives thieves the idea that there is substantial money in there.
* Separate coins and cash for expenses while on the road. There won't be needless unfastening of your purse or bag.
* If traveling with a group do not wander off without company and inform others if a visit to a washroom is urgent.
* Young girls should avoid wearing skimpy clothes that would invite malicious stares
* Girls should sit where there are more women.
At the rate things are going, the public transport sector is gearing up to protect their passengers by installing video security cameras in buses and taxis. But how about ensuring that metal detectors and guards are posted at every bus stop to prevent knives, bombs and guns from getting on the bus too?
