by Kari Tervo
Never cry wolf.
Don't shout fire in a crowded theater.
These are maxims we learn as young children. We hear the fable of the boy who repeatedly falsely warned his village that they were in danger, only to be ignored when a wolf really came around. Americans have all learned about not calling false fire alarms ever since the 1913 Italian Hall Disaster in Calumet, Michigan. Our parents and teachers take the time to make us unequivocally understand that it is unacceptable to fake a serious safety or emergency situation.
Why are all children taught these phrases? And why are there serious civil and criminal consequences for people who, say, call in a fake bomb threat? There are three obvious reasons:
1) To fake an emergency leads to an unnecessary mobilization of important resources.
2) It may result in actual tragedy.
For instance, in the Italian Hall disaster, 73 people died in a trampling stampede after someone falsely shouted "Fire!" at a community Christmas party.
For instance, in the Italian Hall disaster, 73 people died in a trampling stampede after someone falsely shouted "Fire!" at a community Christmas party.
And 3) When there actually is an emergency at a later time, those fooled may not respond.
These are things we all know. This is common sense. People with moderately-severe cognitive problems (e.g., mental retardation, dementia) can be taught not to do these things. If they are at risk for irresponsible behavior on this level, they require constant supervision.
So what the hell is wrong with Jack White? Did you hear what Rolling Stone said he did in a recent London show?
CLICK RAWR TO REFRESH JACK WHITE ON BASIC SAFETY!
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