The change means extra security at bus depots and bus yards, and a request to the public to be extra vigilant and report any suspicious packages, substances or activities.

However, state, county and public safety officials emphasized that there are no specific threats to Hawai'i's public transportation, but the state is following federal homeland security recommendations.

"We are safe here in the islands," said Honolulu Police Chief Boisse Correa. "We want to remain vigilant. We are concerned, but at the same time we are a safe community."

The warning is not meant to discourage the use of public transportation, but rather to ask users to have a heightened awareness of their surroundings, said state Adjutant General Maj. Robert Lee.

The security will involve all public bus systems throughout the state, as well as Department of Education school buses and private tour bus and trolley companies.

The airports and harbors should not be affected. "They do not expect any delays at the airports and no effect on maritime transportation whatsoever," Lee said.

The state's Civil Defense officials were notified about the London attacks shortly after 2 a.m. and followed up with conference calls to federal, state and county officials to determine what additional security measures would be taken and recommended to the governor.

Gov. Linda Lingle said the security measures stopped short of searching passengers, but would include stepping up security where buses are parked or repaired so that no one can tamper with the unoccupied buses.

Hawai'i residents are not just asked to be vigilant here, but to carry this caution with them if they leave the islands. "Our residents should also remain alert when traveling on the Mainland or abroad when using mass transit systems," Lingle said.

But other than being alert, officials do not recommend any change to bus riders daily routines.

"We ask the public to continue riding the buses. There is no specific threat to our buses," said Roger Morton, senior vice president for Oahu Transit Services.

Reach Treena Shapiro at tshapiro@honoluluadvertiser.com or 525-8014.

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In response to the London attacks, the O'ahu Civil Defense Agency has the following recommendations:

Be informed and have a plan for action when riding public transportation

• Familiarize yourself with the bus.

• Know the location of emergency exits.

• Inform bus operator of any suspicious packages, substances or activities.

• In an emergency situation remain calm and listen for bus or public announcements.

• Do not prevent bus doors from closing.

• Follow instructions given by bus employees. Proceed in an orderly fashion.

Be on the alert for suspicious objects or substances. If you spot an unattended package or object, look for the following:

• Placement in an out-of-the-way location

• Individuals in the act of abandoning the object, package or substance and quickly leaving the area

• Objects with unusual items attached such as batteries, wires, tanks, bottles or bags

• An attached message or note

• A suspicious cloud, mist, gas, vapor, odor or seeping fluid

• Nearby individuals showing signs of illness or distress

DO NOT confront suspicious individuals or touch suspicious objects, packages or substances. Contact the bus driver or call 911. If possible, use a landline phone to report a suspicious object, package or substance.

Personal Preparedness tips

• Create an advanced plan for maintaining contact with family members if separated as a result of an emergency.

• Create an advanced plan for maintaining contact with close friends and colleagues during an extended emergency period.

• Keep a record of all contact and emergency information and update it regularly as needed.

• Select a location outside your home as a family meeting point should your home need to be evacuated.

• Identify alternate routes and means of reaching your meeting point in the event your main route is impassible.

• Keep a local map handy for reference.

• Make sure your emergency information and contact numbers are with you at all times.