Trying to keep safe in Iraq

In Baghdad, residents are taking security into their own hands to combat frequent car bomb attacks and threats from militias and gangs. Many use makeshift barriers to protect their neighborhoods, but the constant danger has led some to consider leaving Iraq. Despite a troop surge, security remains a significant issue, with U.S. officials claiming improvements. President George Bush faces decisions on whether to withdraw some of the 168,000 soldiers stationed in Iraq.

What are Baghdadis using to block roads and secure their districts?

• Concrete barriers

• Tires and washing machines

• Sandbags

• Metal fences

Why do residents of Baghdad only leave their homes when necessary?

• Due to a curfew imposed by the government

• Because of frequent car bomb attacks

• To avoid traffic congestion

• To conserve resources

What is one of the more radical solutions some Baghdadis are considering due to security issues?

• Building underground shelters

• Leaving the country

• Moving to rural areas

• Hiring private security

How long after the troop surge is security still a major problem in Iraq?

• Three months

• Six months

• Nine months

• One year

What decision is President George Bush expected to make regarding U.S. troops?

• Increasing the number of troops

• Maintaining the current troop levels

• Starting to bring some troops home

• Deploying troops to other regions