Using Your Lifejacket As a Torch

[nirmd01]

In view of what happened on the Costa Constanzia, when there was total light failure, leaving passengers trying to get to safety in total darkness, I felt I should share the following with you all.

If you ever find yourself in the same situation, and without a torch, then knowing this could be a lifesaver. The lifejackets have a light which is designed to operate on contact with water, however, I discovered on my last cruise that spit on a finger works equally well, albeit for a short while, so you would have to keep on renewing the spit. I think that dipping your finger into any other water based liquid, eg alcohol, would also work. The light is not as bright as a torch, but in a total light failure it would be enough to help see where you were going and could possibly save your life. Maybe the lifejacket manufacturers should now include some sort of manual override on the light to enable it to be used on land?

Also, I have copies of all my essential documents stored on “the cloud” (google docs is a good free cloud storage, but remember to save them as a password protected document) which are easily accessed via the internet anywhere in the world. I also have copies stored on my smartphone and on a USB stick, but having them on “the cloud” would be useful in case I am unable to get to my cabin to collect my originals or other copies.

We all hope that this type of disaster doesn't happen again- but it doesn't hurt to be prepared.

[nirmd01]

Apologies I meant the Costa Concordia-don't know where I got the other name from

[NorbertsNiece]

Thanks for the heads up. Please God I never have recourse to use it.

[jocap]

Yes, thanks for that...we hope no-one ever has to use it, but it's a useful fact to keep in mind and share with others.

Jo.