The Dispatch, Ep 8: Checking in safe on Facebook

The Dispatch by Molly Wood

This week, Molly Wood looks at the use of social media in the aftermath of a natural disaster or terrorist attack. Facebook's Safety Check — a feature that enables users to report themselves as safe — has garnered criticism because of its selectivity, becoming activated after some events and not others. But it can be a powerful tool. Wood spoke with one woman who was across the street from the Brussels airport when the bombs went off on Tuesday morning. For her, the social network provided solace.