For our vacations, we anticipate sunny skies and smooth sailing. But sometimes the worst occurs. Cruise ships are quite safe. According to Cruise Lines International Association, which represents 25 of the major cruise lines serving North America, between 2005 through 2010 there were 16 marine casualty-related deaths out of nearly 100 million passengers worldwide. Still, it never hurts to know ways to protect yourself if the unexpected occurs.
1. Attend the muster drill and pay close attention. Cruise lines must conduct these safety drills at least 24 hours after setting sail; most do so before ever leaving port. As boats have grown in size, the drills have moved from decks near the lifeboats to large areas, such as a dining room or theater, from which passengers would be led to their lifeboat in an emergency. If that's the case, ask a crew member to show you your lifeboat so you know how to get there.
2. Study the ship's layout and carry a map of the ship everywhere you go onboard.
3. Wear shoes with good treads, especially if you're going on deck, where surfaces may be wet.
4. Crime, though not common, poses the likeliest threat onboard a cruise ship. Combat it the same way you might at home: Don't flaunt cash or jewels, avoid walking alone through unpopulated areas and don't drink excessively. By law, doors must have peepholes. Always use them.
KERRI WESTENBERG
