The safety of cruise passengers is on everyone’s mind as a result of the tragic cruise ship accident off the coast of Italy this weekend involving the Costa Concordia cruise ship (operated by Costa Cruises, parent company Carnival Corp.). The safety of the BMWK family while traveling is also our top priority. So, with that in mind we have a few safety tips for cruisers in the event a similar accident should ever happen again.
I know it’s time consuming, but the entire family/your travel party should participate in the safety drill after you’ve boarded the ship. Pay particular attention to the location of the floatation devices and life jackets in the common areas of the ship. Also check the devices in your cabin and alert staff if any are missing. Read the directions and completely familiarize yourself with putting them on. Always put your device/vest on first before helping a family member/friend. In an actual emergency please follow the directions from the crew and captain. Remember they are trained professionals. If you are on the lower decks focus on escaping via the quickest route to upper decks. Stay away from elevators unless the stairs are totally flooded.
Once on the upper deck find the emergency station and the nearest available lifeboat. Try to enter the lifeboat without getting wet, this reduces your chances of hypothermia. If the lifeboats are already in the water find an incline to jump off of and into the lifeboat safely or jump into the water and swim to the nearest lifeboat. If by chance you are on an older ship and there are no lifeboats try to find a life preserver ring before jumping into the water. This will increase your chances of survival when in the water/sea.
In the event of any unforeseen accident don’t jeopardize someone else’s safety but always protect yourself and your loved ones first. It’s easier said than done, but also try to stay calm and try not to panic during an emergency.
Be safe!
By The Travelin Diva (Kirstin N. Fuller)