SafePlace recommends that you not be afraid to ask questions of cruise companies AND your travel agent.

• Have the ship.s safety and security features been reviewed and accepted by an independent accreditor?
• Does the ship have written emergency plans to ensure guest safety?
• Are background checks performed on employees including the FBI and Terrorist lists?
• Is the ship.s staff thoroughly trained in safety processes and procedures?
• When you are docked are access points to the ship being guarded to prevent unauthorized boarding?
• Does the ship employ dedicated 24-hour security personnel?
• Is a government-issued ID required of passengers and all others whenever boarding?
• Is state room access restricted through the use of key cards, dead bolts, etc.

Additional helpful tips to know:

• In case of emergency, know whether to escape, go to a safe refuge or move to your designated lifeboat.
• Know two ways out from any deck or assembly area (restaurants, theatres, night clubs, etc.).
• Know location of and how to use personal flotation devices (life jackets).
• In an emergency check paths for safety before proceeding - feel the door if a fire condition.
• Crawl low under smoke.
• In case of evacuation, do not spend time gathering up valuables - react immediately.