Pontiac Repair: hood release cable, pontiac vibe, release cable

Question
QUESTION: I can't open the hood on my 2003 pontiac vibe. When I pull the release tab inside the car, it feels very loose like the cable is loose somewhere or maybe it broke somewhere.The cable is still attached to the pull tab inside the car. Thanks for the help.

ANSWER: sounds like the cable is broken somewhere, will need to be replaced

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I was wrong. The cable was dis-connected from the pull tab inside the car. My wife Small hands was able to re-connect it, but we were wondering what we could do to prevent this from happening again.Thanks for your help, you are doing a great service to all of us during these tough economic times.Tanks again. Walt

Answer
not sure what you can do aside from making sure there is not supposed to be some sort of retainer on it to keep it from happening.  I would inspect the area where the cable connects to make sure it is not fractured causing the cable to fall out.  You are very welcome for the assistance, these are tough times and I am happy to share my knowledge with those that need it, have a great day.