Really that big of a deal or not?

So here in Honduras people tend to treat things as a bigger deal than they are. I don't know how often people look at me in shock when I say I take taxis, buses, walk, etc. "But, it's so dangerous!" Do you know how tired I get of hearing that. I know it can be. I tend to be pretty alert. And who wants to live in fear anyway. So with that aside let me expand on two recent situations and ponder their necessary actions. These are not situations that I am saying that the actions taken are entirely out of proportion though.
For starters, about a month ago a couple children were kidnapped from their bus stops in the morning on the way to school. Our IST children were frightened and so the school took the precautionary measure to put a police officer on each bus. It's interesting to not only ride the bus as a teacher with students in the morning but then to also be greeted by a police officer holding an MK-47. Pretty interesting stuff, and I laugh because I'm used to it and it doesn't phase me one bit.
The most recent issue is approaching this Swine Flu epidemic. I do understand this could be a world wide threat and while I am probably closer to Mexico in Honduras than I would be in Michigan it is a concern, especially with shakier border control from there to here. So, today we were all given memos and are children notes informing us of the following precautions. Supposedly our students have to use hand sanitizer before entering the classroom. The use of masks was recommended. It's wise to be precautious. I don't like to live in fear as I said. But I can't wait to see all of this! Ha!