Make sure you know what to do in an emergency

A capsized ferry - it is once again a case of why didn’t the passengers do something, and a plethora of other obvious questions follow.

Did the ferry follow internationally agreed standards? Do all ships carry sufficient life jackets and fully enclosed life rafts and boats? Were there enough for the ship’s passengers and crew, with some to spare in case any get damaged? Were those boats equipped with water, rations, homing beacons, etc.?

If a ship is listing, it’s probably evident that the ship is capsizing or sinking. So launch the lifeboats, or at least man them and swing them out ready, and order all passengers to get on deck. It’s completely pointless if you wait for the list to be too great to launch the boats.

Surely things like vending machines and pieces of furniture were bolted to the floor or walls to prevent them from shifting about in high seas. So isn’t it obvious to presume that the cargo and vehicles were also tied down?

Rapid response is important. No matter if the weather is bad, if there are people trapped inside, cut a hole in the exposed hull and send some rescuers in, or tow the ship and beach it. Drill the hull, attach a hose and pump air in.

What can people do to help? Reduce the risk of further deaths.

If you’re traveling by sea or air, make sure you know exactly what to do and where to go in an emergency. If you’re driving, reduce your speed, follow all safety advice and avoid all distractions. Check your smoke alarms, fire precautions and fire escape routes.

BY SD Little Planet Earth