If you have ever participated in a military checklist, such as on a boat crew, or part of an aviation team while in the Armed Forces, you know they are to ensure that certain key steps are observed. A checklist makes sure that important things are done, the same way, every time.
Well, just like on a checklist, it’s a good idea to have some idea what to do, and what to watch for when you take an ocean cruise. You don’t have to become the Safety watchdog, but it is a good idea to be aware of some key issues and items. Lifeboard Drill. This one is something a lot of people ignore. Some cruise lines since September 11th make it mandatory, and actually according to Federal Law it IS mandatory, but some cruise lines enforce it, others don’t. Think of it this way, while it is only thirty minutes in your life, it will be the most important thirty minutes that you ever ignored should you need the information in an emergency. So, attend the drill. Don the life jacket, and pay attention to the information. It literally could save your life.
Life Jackets. This one is important especially if you have kids. Make sure that you know where the life jackets are, and that you can help your kids find them and put them on. These are simple issues, but knowledge can make all the difference in the world. Put a Ziploc bag with a three day supply of all your medications, medications for family members, a flashlight, a change of clothes perhaps, and a hat. It may sound like overkill, but in the dark at night in an emergency it will be good to have handy.
Fire Alarm. Now this one may sound silly, but find the locations of the fire alarm pull boxes near your cabin, and practice with your eyes closed (with a partner) finding it, and learn how to pull it. Don’t actually pull it, obviously, but make sure you know how. Exits. Take note of how the cabin door lock works, and in you are on an older ship that requires a key to open the door from the inside, leave the key in the lock. Newer ships are more modern, but make sure that in the dark you know how to get out of your cabin. Find the closest exits near your cabin. Walk from your cabin, out each one, onto the desk. Then do it again. Twice should be enough.
