Attitude Keeps You Alive

"Attitude Keeps You Alive" was an early motto of the technical diving training agency TDI, but it is well applied elsewhere.

Divers often ask what steps they can take to ensure their safety on a liveaboard. It's something hard to assess before making a booking, and other previous passengers may not have the expertise, though a review of Undercurrent reader reports might prove helpful.

Of course, nothing bad ever happens - until it does.

It makes sense to carry technical aids such as a personal carbon-monoxide monitor and a portable smoke alarm, above all, only your attitude and heightened awareness will keep you safe.

Get to know your way around the boat as soon as you can. Find alternative ways of escape and familiarize yourself with them by using them. A door or hatch marked emergency exit is not such if it cannot be opened. Are these exits big enough for you to pass through?

Know where your life jacket is stowed and try it on while there's no hurry. Familiarize yourself with the sound of the emergency call. Know where the muster point is.

I keep my cabin door open at night. I find the sound of the generators and the engine, if underway, comforting. If there is suddenly an ominous silence, I awake with a start. That often means bad news. Don't be blissfully unaware.

- John Bantin