[Margaret Pilkington]

Yes, I agree that we all must take some responsibility for our own safety...but just how far can you take this? And shouldn't someone in Authority be responsible for the collective safety of the students?

Personally I would not like to carry a weapon, because it can be turned and used against me....and I would hope that in a vast public establishment there would be some form of security the required me not to have to worry about a gunman.
Though I would still acquaint myself with the fire exits and procedure.

Maybe I won't move to the USA after all.