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A cruise is something people look forward to–a time to kick back, relax, and enjoy the festivities at sea. But what if something goes wrong? Tales of missing person’s are not uncommon, but companies go to great lengths to ensure your safety as noted in a recent USA Today article. They are prepared for natural and man-made disasters. Like airline attendants, your ship’s personnel can do a lot more than hand you a towel or pour you a drink.

Here are some behind the scenes cruise safety factors that keep your trip on even keel:

Before entering a cruise ship, passengers and their luggage are thoroughly checked.

All crew must undergo a U.S. State Department background check.

Once the cruise is underway, anyone entering or leaving the ship must also pass through a security screening.

The Coast Guard requires a manifest of everyone onboard the cruise 96 hours before arriving at a U.S. port. The list must be cleared again before the ship can dock.

To prevent cruise ships from becoming targets for terroristic activities, the U.S. and the United Nations set strict maritime security laws, including the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, and the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA).

A spokesman for the International Council of Cruise Lines (ICCL) stated, “These regulations established international security regulations that require all ships, port facilities and governments to have formal security plans, screening measures, access control, waterside security and communications between ships and ports.”

Many organizations work closely to ensure the cruise lines safety. These organizations are comprised of the Customs and Border Protection, Office of Naval Intelligence, ICCL security committee the U.S. Coast Guard, the Department of Transportation, the Department of Homeland Security, and the FBI. Their primary goal is to protect the passengers and crew from any and all terrorist attacks in port or at sea.

What You Can Do To Ensure Your Safety on a Cruise:

Listen and participate in the safety drill. You may have heard it all before, but know where the exits are, where the life boats are, and how to inflate your safety floatation device could save your life–so pay attention.

Wash your hands often. Biological germs are perhaps your biggest enemy on a cruise ship. Use the hand sanitizers located throughout the ship, and use them often.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that cruise ship passengers are susceptible to the norovirus, and 2,200 cases of this virus are reported each year (on cruise ships). This is less than one percent of all cruise passengers, but washing hands and coughing into your sleeve can help deter the spread of germs.

Let someone know where you’re going to be at all times. Leave a note in your cabin, or mention to your family or friends where you’re planning to go–on the ship and if you happen to take any excursions. This is just common sense, but could save hours of searching in case of an emergency.

Have a good time, but don’t drink to the point of not being safe. You should be able to walk, say your name, and know your way back to your cabin. Just because you’re not driving on a cruise doesn’t mean you can’t be dangerous to yourself and others.

Stay in the main passenger areas of the ship. This is for your safety. Make it a practice to be with a buddy, particularly late at night. There are hundreds, if not thousands of people on a ship–so be just as aware and practice the same safety procedures you would if you were out to dinner or going to a nightclub late at night. With many people drinking in excess, you need to be aware of sexual assault crimes, bar rights, and other reckless behavior that could put you at risk.

The International Cruise Victims Organization states that “cruise companies are largely unregulated and unaccountable for protecting passengers from crime and for assisting passengers after crimes have been committed.”

Remember to keep an eye on your belongings. Don’t leave your wallet, camera, or cell phone lying around. Store your valuable in your cabin’s safe or leave them at the purser’s office. It’s best to leave fine jewelry at home. Be particularly aware of pick-pocketers when you take excursions.

Be aware of any suspicious activity. Just as you would in any public place, report unattended bags or backpacks, and report any suspicious activities to the ship’s security.

Do report any crimes that occur. In the past, crimes at sea were difficult to prosecute, but this has changed. Report crimes or missing persons to the purser’s office or to the ship’s security staff. It’s also wise to report any crimes to the FBI or local U.S. Consulate as a double measure. Take photographs of any assaults or thefts, and make sure that evidence is collected properly. Don’t sit by idly and then regret not taking charge. If you are a victim, then your rights have been violated and you deserve a proper and thorough investigation.

Always carry copies of your passport and identification–and leave a set at home. Let others know you’re taking a cruise and leave information either at home or on your computer.

If bad weather occurs–storms or hurricanes–listen closely to the directions given. Go to your cabin and be prepared to evacuate. Make sure that all members of your party are accounted for. Keep your cell phone and identification, including passport, with you at all times. Be sure to pack Dramamine or some other type of nausea medicine.

Be aware of basic safety measures. Along with the safety measures put in place by the international community and U.S. organizations will allow you to enjoy your cruise and know that you’ll arrive home safe and relaxed.