Topic: RCCL to Tighten Policy for Muster Drills

QUOTE:

My only experience with RCC (Navigator) consisted of life boat drill being just a short talk in the theatre outlining what to do and where to go, unlike other cruises where we have collected life jackets and reported to our muster stations for roll call and fitting instructions etc.

I also have doubts about the safety of going to your cabin to collect a lifejacket. If the ship had a fire why increase the risk to life by going to your cabin just to collect a lifejacket? I believe that most have spares either in or close to the lifeboats, these would be my first choice. Just imagine nearly 4000 people in the dark going to a cabin and back to the boat deck? Best to go straight to the lifeboat and get one there.
And what about the disabled? They could be at the blunt end eating a meal, and their lifeboat is at the pointy end !!! I think that some review of proceedures will be taking place even as we speak.
And all this assumes that the crew remain cool and calm in the event of a mishap? I still think my gut feel will save me and my OH.

Cruised with many different cruise Lines and on most Emergency Drills the Captain reminds everyone that the emergency signal is not a signal to abandon ship and on hearing it you should return to your cabin/stateroom to collect your life jackets and any medication you may need, IF POSSIBLE.and if it is not possible lifejackets will be provided for you at the muster station or lifeboat if required.
Biggest problem is that some passengers think that as they have been many times before,they know it all and talk to each other all the way through it.The crew members who are trying to supervise the exercise will not say anything to them as they are afraid of offending them,(same as cabin crew on aircraft)