Q: To celebrate my husband’s retirement next month, we had plans  to take a Caribbean cruise. We’ve never been on one before, and we really looked forward to it. Now, after all the bad news about the Italian ship sinking, we’re having second thoughts. What are your thoughts? 
K.B., Scranton PA

A: During the past 10 years, more than 150 million people sailed on commercial cruises. According to statistics, 60 people, including those on the Costa Concordia, were killed due to onboard accidents or sinkings. You have a 100 times greater chance of dying in highway collisions, airplane crashes or accidents in your homes.

Because of the sinking of the Concordia, you can be sure every cruise ship will be extra safe this year. However, because this is your first cruise, in the weeks before you go, check thorughly with travel agents and cruise lines about personal safety.

In addition to getting information about abandon ship drills, understand everything you can about seasickness, security measures aboard, shore visit safety, local foods and other ways to make your cruise trouble-free. Our advice is to to ahead with your retirement cruise plans, and feel sure it will be one of the most enjoyable experiences in your lives.