VI
EN
Each year, Vietnam records numerous unfortunate waterway accidents, resulting in loss of life and affecting the morale of tourists. These incidents not only leave families grieving but also highlight the need for greater attention to safety on inland and coastal waterways. Besides technical factors, the negligence of both vessel operators and passengers is also a contributing factor to these unforeseen events.
Following the boat sinking in Ha Long Bay on the afternoon of July 19th, which resulted in 35 deaths and 4 missing persons, the entire nation is shocked and saddened. These events once again highlight the importance of equipping people, especially those who frequently participate in waterway tourism, with knowledge and skills for water survival. Experts have continuously issued specific recommendations and guidelines to enhance the chances of survival in emergency situations on rivers and seas.
These tragic accidents serve as a wake-up call for the public.
What should you keep in mind when traveling by waterway?
Always listen to and remember the safety instructions.
In the maritime tourism industry, major companies adhere to strict safety regulations. Organizing safety briefings before each departure is not only a mandatory requirement but also a testament to the service provider's commitment to safety. Failure to comply can result in severe penalties or even the loss of their operating license.
Cruising can be a relaxing experience for travelers seeking a peaceful getaway. However, you should keep the following guidelines in mind to ensure a smooth and safe trip.
A standard safety briefing typically includes a wealth of important information. Passengers will be introduced to emergency response procedures, from recognizing emergency signals to locating and assembling in safe areas. Specific instructions will be given on the location and use of life vests, life rafts, and communication equipment. Importantly, passengers will be shown the nearest emergency exit from their seat, along with key evacuation commands and warning sounds. While rarely used, this information can significantly impact the chances of successful rescue and survival in an emergency.
Actively observe and familiarize yourself with your surroundings.
Each transportation company's safety procedures are built upon practical experience and international standards, so no instructions are superfluous. Passengers actively listening and cooperating during briefings is essential. In rare emergencies, the chances of survival usually favor those who are prepared and know exactly what to do.
Tourists need to be familiar with the itinerary: how long the trip will take, which places to visit, and what to avoid.
Besides listening, passengers should also proactively check the safety equipment that has been instructed. Make sure that life vests are readily available and that other equipment such as lifebuoys (if any) are in good working order. Another helpful habit is to check the emergency exit map as soon as you board the ship. Similar to entering a new hotel, apartment building, or boarding an airplane, identifying the nearest emergency exit and remembering the route will help you react more quickly and effectively if any incident occurs.
Always keep a life vest with you.
Life vests are the most important life-saving equipment. Every passenger on board is provided with a life vest. Even if you don't wear it during the trip, always keep it in an easily accessible location. As soon as you have any premonition of an emergency, immediately put on the life vest correctly.
Always keep a life jacket close at hand when traveling by boat.
Handle heavy objects and move them safely.
When a boat shows signs of trouble, quickly remove any unnecessary heavy items, placing them on the deck or throwing them overboard if possible to avoid injury from the rocking motion. Then, move slowly towards the center of the boat, which is usually more stable and safer.
If water starts flooding in, stay calm and cooperate with others using available tools to bail the water out. Meanwhile, kneel or sit low to maintain balance and avoid losing your footing. Especially if someone panics, absolutely do not struggle or stand up, as this could cause the boat to capsize more quickly.
Always remain calm when handling heavy objects if the boat shows signs of sinking.
Hold onto a floating object and quickly leave the danger zone.
As the ship begins to sink, quickly throw all buoyant items into the water, such as plastic containers, foam pieces, plastic buckets, or lifebuoys. If the ship has a life raft system, move according to the crew's instructions and maintain order; absolutely do not jump into the water or rush to the lower decks, as this could endanger yourself and others.
In the absence of lifebuoys, calmly observe your surroundings for any floating objects you can grab onto, then jump toward them. If there are multiple lifeboats, try to link them together with ropes or cloth; this increases stability in rough seas, maintains cohesion among groups, and makes them easier for rescue vessels to spot.
Try to find floating objects to grab onto to ensure your safety.
One important thing to remember is that as the boat begins to sink, the vacuum effect can pull you down. So, if you must jump from the boat, use all your strength to jump as far as possible, and look carefully to avoid colliding with others or jumping into an already crowded area.
Once in the water, absolutely do not thrash around in panic. Uncontrolled exertion will quickly exhaust you and make you more likely to drown. Try to take deep breaths, relax, and lie on your back so your body floats on the surface. This is a crucial technique to help you maintain your breath, stay calm, and increase your chances of survival, even if you don't know how to swim. By doing this, you can hold out until rescue teams arrive.
Conserve your strength and send out a distress signal.
If you spot an oil slick from a sunken ship, immediately try to move away from the area as the risk of fire from the oil spill is very high. If you see other aircraft or ships in the distance, use all means to signal for help: light flares, create smoke, wave brightly colored clothing, or make loud noises. However, if the signal is not received, don't waste too much energy; save your energy for more urgent situations.
In all circumstances, the most important thing is to conserve energy. Limit food intake if supplies are limited, portion your meals appropriately, and prioritize staying hydrated. If it rains, use plastic bags, hats, or any available container to collect rainwater – fresh water is vital. Absolutely do not drink seawater, as it will dehydrate you even faster. Seaweed, if found, can be a temporary source of nutrition to help you survive.
If you are adrift at sea, you must remain calm, determine your direction to land, and find a way to send out a distress signal if you see any passing vessels.
When at sea, try to stay calm and observe your surroundings to determine your direction towards land. Seabirds often fly back to land in the afternoon – if you see a bird, you can follow its flight path. When you hear signs of land, use the wind or currents to reach that direction as safely as possible.
No one wants to be adrift at sea, but if it happens, in addition to survival skills, you also need mental strength to overcome fear and panic. Calmness and a will to survive will become your compass, helping you navigate danger and increase your chances of being rescued.
