Does training civilians how to respond in an air disaster or emergeny make sense?

Question

Since the last terror attempt was put down by the passengers, and since we know of several other incidents (including Flight 93) where the civilian passengers were instrumental in preventing an even worse disaster, how about the government sponsoring classes to teach frequent flyers who are willing to be trained how to respond properly in an air emergency until the proper authorities are able to take over?   This is not intended to replace air marshalls any more than CPR classes were intended to replace doctors and EMTs, but simply a recognition that civilian response is an important but seemingly overlooked remedy to airline hazards.

They show us how to operate the seatbelts at the beginning of every flight.  How about showing us reasonable things to do in case it becomes obvious that someone is about to do something harmful?

Jed B · Accepted Answer

Actually, it does.  It could empower people to not feel like helpless victims during such an ordeal.

Marco G · Answer

Frankly, I think this, and all the media hype, is a lot of ... hype. More people die of lightning attacks than terrorist attacks every year, yet we're not freaking out about that are we?  I'm not saying it is not a serious matter, it is, but the terrorists have won the moment you start surrendering to fear. It's the whole point of their tactics, terror/fear, get it?  We're spying on our neighbors, the government is spying on us, and we are surrendering our dignity at the airports. If you told this to someone in the 80's they'd think you're nutz. They'd say they'd never surrender their freedom and way of life because some loonies manage to blow up an airliner or two now and then.  Yet look at us. Pathetic.

Sir Jam · Answer

The passengers on Flight 93 acted on instinct.  There is no possible training for that.

towwwdothello · Answer

It would be easier and quicker to offer discounts to veterans for that same purpose.

Problem is, Homeland insecurity is under the impression Veterans are at high risk for joining right wing extremist groups.

So much for American values.

Anonymous · Answer

if the average american wasn't so stupid yes it would. but in reality the average America would be overwhelmed out simple instructions on how to properly deal with a air emergency that this would never work. best least this to the private sector.

? · Answer

i doesn't make much sense. if you are telling all the passengers, you are telling the people that will be taking over the plane what to expect. how does that help your cause?

Anonymous · Answer

You mean train my neighbor for "crowd control" when Obama decides he is tired of us bi%^&ing, right??

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Does training civilians how to respond in an air disaster or emergeny make sense?

7 Answers