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Assuring Safety while Sailing
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Does it matter if the ship sails out of a U.S. port as opposed to a foreign country ?
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- When a passenger ship sails from a U.S. port, even if it flys a foreign flag, it is under U.S. Coast Guard inspection standards. These are some of the strictest in the world. A ship that spends most of its time in Europe, but sails the Caribbean part of the year out of a U.S. port, falls under these restrictions and must meet U.S. requirements. Be cautious if the ship doesn’t sail from a U.S. port. If it doesn't, check the cruise line’s reputation for safety and the specific ship’s safety record before booking.
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Where do I find information about a ship's sanitation record ?
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www.cdc.gov
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This is the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s, Sanitation Inspection of International Cruise Ships web page. It contains links to the CDC’s published inspection scores of international cruise ships. Any ship that carries 13 or more passengers and sails from a U.S. port is subject to two, annual, unannounced sanitation inspections. A ship may also be re-inspected anytime if it is thought to be necessary. Inspections are made as part of the Vessel Sanitation Program of the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention. The maximum score possible is100 points. A score of 86 or higher is considered acceptable. Keep in mind that that anyone can have a good or bad day. To get the best overall picture, evaluate of the ship’s scores over a long period of time.
Inspectors evaluate each ship in the following areas :
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Its water supplies, distribution and storage.
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Whether food storage, preparation and service is adequate.
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The potential for contamination of food and water.
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The practice and personal hygiene of employees.
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The general cleanliness and physical condition of the ship.
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Whether a training program in environmental and public health concerns is in place.
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How do I increase my safety while on aboard a ship ?
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Be sure that there are enough life jackets in your cabin for everyone, Ask your cabin steward if you need more.
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Always attend and pay attention to the lifeboat drill. It is not joke. Take it seriously, it could save your life. Learn the most direct route from your cabin to the lifeboat area and the fire exits.
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Always use handrails. Decks are often slippery and it takes time to get your "sea legs".
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Wait until you are familiar with the ship’s motion before you start any serious drinking ! The sea can have a similar affect on your balance and equilibrium as alcohol does. Don't magnify your problems.
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CAUTION ! If you smoke, NEVER throw cigarette butts off the deck. It is against maritime law. Also they could land on a lower veranda, deck or open window and start a fire.
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How do I make sure that I'm safe in my cabin ?
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Lock your cabin door. Even if you're just going down the corridor for ice, lock it up.
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Use the ship’s main safety deposit boxes or individual cabin safe for money and valuables.
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Never leave cash in your room. This is common sense. Use yours !
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If the cabin is set up with bunk beds, always use the ladder that is provided.
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Know how to contact your cabin steward at any time of day or night.
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Don't be overly trusting and give your cabin number to strangers.
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