How to Survive a Sinking Ship, According to Science
You’re enjoying a nice dayon an ocean cruise. You’re relaxed and secure. Too bad that a rogue wave, human error, high winds,or a mechanical failurejust ruined your trip. Suddenly, a huge spray ofwater douses your clothes. People are rushing around shriekingand falling over deck chairs. The floor underneath your feet is lurching. Your ship is sinking. So, how do you survive?Here’s how to withstand thedanger of a sinking ship,Long before a potential disaster strike,there are steps you can takein order to be prepared. the captain or a crew member willgive a safety briefing over the speakers. As boring as that may be,it will prepare you andmaybe even save your life. Because it may restrict your movement when it’s on,don’t wear it. Just carry it with you during an emergency, and put it on when you’re on the deck. Next, take a walk. In case of smoke impeding your site,you need to have an idea of whereeverything is during an emergency. Disaster strikes!Now, do the same thing you did earlier. The crew is trained for emergencies,so if instructions are being issued, follow them. Most importantly, do not panic. According to studies, 70% of peopleexperience lessened reasoning abilitywhen they panic, and you don’twant to be one of them. Stay on the ship as long as you can,as it’s your safest bet. Did you feel a big lurch?Do you see water where it shouldn’t be?Listen for your captainto announce, “abandon ship,”and watch for the crew to droplifeboats into the water. Now, for the surprising news. If you’re a woman or a child and you’reexpecting polite behaviorfrom your fellow passengers,don’t count on it. Everyone’s in a panic,and there are no actual maritime lawsrequiring that women and childrenget on lifeboats first. When a crew member helps you into a lifeboat, stay calm. Do not drink sea water or urine. People with determined and positive attitudes are the ones who tend to survive. Distract yourself from the cold andother discomfort by playing mentalgames, counting and thinking of others. Ideally, all the lifeboats will be tied together, so that everyone iseasier to find and rescue. Your best chance of survival now, is to be helpful and friendly to your fellow survivors. It’ll be difficult and scary,but if you follow these instructions,you have a good chance of survivinga sinking ship, according to science.