Life-jackets used in Philippine ships are virtual death traps
The Inquirer.net published a two-part investigative report about the wreck of Sulpicio Lines’ Princess of the Stars. The second part of the series is something that everyone who seeks to travel by sea should consider very seriously. And I mean, reading this can mean life and death for sea travelers.
According to the report, the life vests that were issued by Sulpicio Lines for Princess were outlawed years ago, because it meant certain death for those using it.
The jackets are not only outdated, they are considered death traps. When someone who wears the jacket jumps into the water, the force of impact can literally crush the person’s neck or jaw. The jackets were also designed so that if one becomes unconscious, the face will be under water.
And yet, half of all inter-island ferries still use these life jackets.
Now I’m not trying to scare anyone, but giving a fair warning to everyone who wish to travel the seas. Either make sure the ship you’re on has newer, safer life-jackets, or bring your own. Seriously.
For a full report of the Inquirer investigation, read “Most life jackets used in RP vessels a ‘hangman’s noose“. The first part is “30-minute pre-departure inspection of ship a ‘joke’”
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