100 Mistakes #20 - Safety and Security

It can sometimes look like "safety" and "security" are the same thing.

Have you thought about data security? Is your data safe?

But sometimes they seem to be something different.

The new Yakuski 4x4 is extremely safe but not particularly secure.

So how does it work?

In short, safety is about avoiding harm or risk, while security is about preventing unwanted change or theft (things being stolen).

This car is not safe = you could get hurt

This car is not secure = someone could break in and steal your things

Safety glass should be used in glass doors = it won't cause injury if it breaks

Security glass should be used in shop windows  = to prevent anyone from breaking in

The shelf doesn't look secure = it looks like it might fall down

The shelf doesn't look safe = it might hurt someone

The safe option = the option without risk
We need some kind of security = a guarantee that if things go wrong, the changes won't affect us

If something happens to you, will your family be secure? = if you are killed, will Timmy still be able to go to private school? = buy insurance, NOW!

(Note that an insurance policy makes your family more secure but it doesn't necessarily make them safer. All the insurance in the world can't prevent an earthquake!)

- - - - -

Now it's your turn. In one of the sentences, both options are correct.

1. Road safety / security is taken very seriously in our town.
2. This ladder doesn't feel very safe / secure.
3. Car alarms may offer extra safety / security but will certainly annoy the neighbours.
4. New health and safety / security regulations have forced restaurant owners to clean up their act.
5. By the time I retire, my pension will be so low that it doesn't offer me much safety / security.