Human Barrier

Authorities have concluded that access to a [phone is more likely to deter jumpers] from ending it all on two bridges crossing the Hudson River than physical barriers, such as—oh I don’t know—an electrified fence (though I guess that might defeat the purpose). After a [study examined a range of suicide-prevention](http://www.thejournalnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070520/NEWS01/705200396) strategies, bridge authorities decided to install three telephones on the Tappan Zee Bridge, where 27 people have leapt to their deaths over the past 10 years, and four on the Bear Mountain Bridge, where nine have committed suicide. The phones will connect [seriously pessimistic callers to Lifeline](http://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070516/NEWS01/705160329), a suicide-prevention hot line that is staffed 24 hours a day by optimistic workers. Apparently, our fence idea would require too much maintenance and money. But not surprisingly, many who have lost loved ones on these bridges would like to see more of a concrete barrier.

Photo courtesy of [mysticchildz on Flickr]