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London Incidents Remind Commuters to Be Alert
Red Cross Offers Tools and Tips for Urban Commuters
Written by
Amanda Mark
, staff, Redcross.org
Thursday, July 21, 2005 — With an eerie similarity to the July 7 London Underground attacks, midday blasts today in three London subway stations and one double-decker bus have prompted the closure of those stations and put United States transportation officials in urban centers across the country on alert.
The American Red Cross Safety Tube contains a dust mask, light stick, water packet and whistle. The Red Cross recommends that commuters carry these
tools with them on their ride home. |
At this time, London officials are reporting only one unconfirmed injury – unlike the attacks that took place during the morning rush hour two weeks ago and resulted in 56 deaths. The London incidents remind the public that the Department of Homeland Security threat advisory level remains at Code Orange or "high" for mass transit systems, as it has since July 7. This increased level for mass transit includes subways, intra-city bus lines, regional intra- and inter-city rail lines.
The American Red Cross urges commuters to use their typical transportation mode for their post-work ride home, but to employ a heightened sense of awareness and to follow the lead of their local transportation authorities.
The Red Cross offers the following recommendations for today’s commute:
- Become familiar with the emergency procedures for your local transit system.
- Learn and practice alternate routes to where you may need to go.
- Take special note of the emergency exits at the stations you use.
- Carry a flashlight, dust mask, and protective gloves with you.
- Keep a local map with you in case you need to walk or find alternate transportation.
- Update your family disaster plan to include your regular commuting routes.
- Locate the nearest payphone and carry coins as some cellular telephone may not work in underground transportation.
While this evening’s ride home will be accompanied with added security and heightened awareness, the Red Cross recommends that commuters are always equipped with the latest knowledge and appropriate tools.
“The recent explosions in London highlight the need for constant preparedness that should be an everyday task for everyday life,” said Keith Robertory, preparedness expert with the American Red Cross. “We recommend that commuters always tell their family or friends their commuting plans, are aware of alternative routes, and carry a local map in case you need to navigate a new path home.”
Robertory also recommends that commuters are equipped with simple tools to assist in exiting hazardous situations. Robertory carries the Red Cross Safety Tube on his commute, which contains a light stick, dust mask, water packet and whistle (to alert rescuers of his presence in an emergency).
For more information about terrorism preparedness, visit the American Red Cross and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Web site www.redcross.org/preparedness.
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