As Hurricane Gustav approached the Gulf coast, mandatory evacuation orders were issued.
But not everyone complied with the order. In Mississippi three people who decided to stay
behind had to be rescued today. This meant that the rescuers were put into danger because
others did not heed the warning.
I learned that in Texas the government cannot force you to evacuate.
My question to you is simply: at what point should mandatory mean just that?
Should other lives be put in jeopardy because an individual decides they know better
than government authorities?
It is not an easy question and many views can come into play as we search for a
reasonable compromise, if one is needed.
This question requires some critical thinking on your part. Take a look at the elements
of critical thinking as you answer questions from me and all your other professors this semester.
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3 comments:
This from Liberty County Sheriff Greg Arthur and KSHN-FM radio station - What Does it Mean? We have heard the term “mandatory evacuation” used during some past emergencies. Sheriff Greg Arthur said if a mandatory evacuation is ordered and you choose not to leave, that means emergency services may not be available to you until the event passes. It is a way of saying, if you choose to stay, no one will force you to leave, but for the most part, you’re kind of on your own until the worst is over.
"Mandatory" should be changed to "It is STRONGLY advised you leave your home." I know I would not leave my home and I would take all the steps to safeguard myself and my home. People should be responsible for the situation they put themselves into.
Zoe, Thanks for the clarification. Emmanuel suggests strongly advise.
It is all well and good to say people will be on their own, but the reality is that rescuers will be called up for emergency situations and will be risking their lives to assist those who would not do as requested.
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