3 comments so far.Passengers reminded not to stay in vehicles on Gozo Channel garage deck
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Gozo Channel, in a statement on Monday reminded passengers using the ferries that they are not allowed to remain in their vehicles on the garage deck and car alarms are to be deactivated whilst the vessel is under way.
The company warned that in the event of an emergency, which may involve a vehicle fire, the visibility in the garage space would be greatly reduced making it next to impossible to evacuate the space.
“Toxic fumes released from the fire would make the air unbreathable. It would also be extremely difficult for any rescuers, wearing breathing apparatus, to locate any passengers in such conditions,” the company said.
The Company also advised car drivers to deactivate their vehicle alarm when they leave the vehicles, this must be for the duration of the voyage.
“The ship’s motion sets off the vehicle’s alarm, creating an unpleasant atmosphere, audible even by passengers on the upper decks,” it said.
File photo: Gozo News/Alain Salvary
As a frequent commuter on Gozo channel ferries, I can say that there are people who decide to stay in their cars on purpose. But unfortunately there are many other times where people are blocked in their cars and can’t come out because the crew literally pack cars like sardines, leaving no room to open car doors. If an accident happens there will be casualties for sure.
There is not enough space for three cars to be parked next to each other. Common sense says that the car in the middle should be parked further back to allow the passengers of other cars to go out.
Several times I had to argue my way with the crew, who some of them excel in sheer incompetence. Unfortunately I gave up to the arrogant attitude and stupidity of some.
So before writing an article of what should and shouldn’t be done, the Gozo channel management and crew should go in the garage when loading and crossing and look for themselves at the problem.
Yes, unfortunately health and safety is non existent. And may I remind you of another serious issue. What about cars that are kept with the ignition on, simply for the owner to enjoy his air condition during the crossing. Carbon monoxide kills.
There are many ideal things to be done but if not followed through serve nothing.
I agree. If there is an accident or fire (not the first ferry to go “down”) the ship bulkheads close automatically and trapped people will sink like rats.
I always hate to squeeze out of my car which is not an oversized SUV and I am not an oversized person.
On all commercial ships, there are signs with “SAFETY FIRST” everywhere.
You are not correct when you saying about the car alarms because modern cars are activated automatically when they lock the doors