When think of violence it means different things to different people in different places. In my world in Canada, I have been fortunate (knock on wood) to never been part of the violence of war, civil unrest, explosions but that doesn't mean violence doesn't exist. In our community we are affectionately called the city of jails.

We have three provincial jails for prisioners under 2 years or in remand and a Federal medium security prison with a secure maximum unit. I've been in all these facilites caring for patient's. I've seen the nutorious Clifford Olson, Charles Ing when our facility had an ultra maxium secuirty unit. I've walked the ranges on calls and wonder what if. What if there wasn't such safe entrance and exit controlled by guards. I've cared for criminals of all shape, size and attitude including some really bad gang members. Again what if this transport to the hospital was an attempt to break out. What would the guards do, what do I do.

Violence exists, we manage it, live with it, let it manage us or have an astute sense of awareness to be alert but not let it take over my day, my life. Just when I get on a plane. I hope security has done their job because it can really ruin my day if something goes wrong.

• Lyle Karasiuk