Last week’s
column dealt with ways to assist fellow transit riders who are
victims of harassment or violence. Thankfully,the number of
occurrences are rare, but it’s worth knowing what security
measures are available.
The TTC is
working on a long-term plan for installing more video or closed
circuit TV cameras, both in subway stations and aboard surface
vehicles. Cameras can deter crime and aid the authorities in
identifying suspects seen committing offences. The TTC has a
variety of surveillance systems. Some cameras are monitored by
station collectors while others record video for use at a later
time. What cameras won't do is physically apprehend someone
committing a crime. Immediate reaction still requires a human
being.
There is a
limit to how effective surveillance can be -- London, England is
extensively covered by cameras, including the Underground
transport system.
Last year I
spoke with a young man who had been mugged in a TTC subway
station. Asking that his last name not be used, Chris described
a confrontation with some youths that he didn't know. While
being robbed of his personal stereo, he was punched in the face
and fell onto the subway tracks. The young man was able to
safely return to the platform, making his way upstairs to the
station’s fare collector.
Chris
received a letter from the TTC, which he felt was less concerned
about him than with establishing that the TTC was without blame.
Chris and his family asked to address the transit commission
regarding security protocols, and he says that once it was
determined that his intent was not to sue the TTC, he and the
commissioners discussed what happened. Since then, transit
staff have met with Chris and his family to update them on
increasing surveillance in the subway.
Would
cameras overlooking track level help deter crimes like this? To
what extent is the transit system responsible for keeping us
safe? E-mail transit@eddrass.com and let me know whether you
feel the TTC is doing enough to prevent crime on the system.
Some
readers have already sent e-mails describing what they contend
are inadequate responses from TTC personnel during or after
assaults or harassment. Presumably these instances occur much
less frequently than the times when transit employees
successfully help patrons in need, or prevent crimes altogether.
Discussing
security measures is a tricky balance. Riders ought to have a
reasonable idea of the security measures in place to protect
them from random crime. This is measured against a justifiable
need to limit information, in order to deter intentional
attacks.
People
around the world are faced with greater personal responsibility
in keeping themselves and others safe. No amount of cameras or
security officers will allow citizens to ignore what's going on
around them.
Now is a
good time to consider your actions if you were to see a fellow
patron being harassed or you came across an unattended package.
A little forethought and attention could go a long way.
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