ON THE WAY

Transitional spaces are public spaces with lots of activity. While traveling, you pass through many of these spaces. Public parking garages, bus and train stations, and airports are the most common. Transitional spaces bring with them increased risk — lack of familiarity, managing multiple variables (luggage, family members, crowds, etc.), lots of unknown individuals, and often the pressure to get where you are going on time.

Airports, railroad terminals, and trains are easy targets for pickpockets, thieves, and terrorist bombers. Pay attention to what is going on around you. When carrying luggage, keep it within view or touch. While checking in at the airport, or registering at the hotel, position your luggage against your leg or on the counter to make sure you keep

The 2017 bombing outside of the Ariana Grande concert in Manchester, England is a textbook example of the risks inherent in transitional spaces. The bomber set up in a public area between the arena and the Manchester train station. Thousands of individuals transited that space that night, going to and from the concert, catching trains, or just heading out with friends. Someone standing waiting with luggage is normal in that context. The bomber knew traffic flow would be heavy and that security would likely only consist of CCTV cameras. Getting through those spaces as quickly as possible is the best plan of action, remaining alert for odd behaviors and other threat signals.