Largely in response to a litany of highly publicized recent incidents, the Coast Guard has begun conducting unannounced examinations of cruise ships. The examinations are being conducted quickly, to avoid unnecessary delays to cruise ship schedules. However, when such inspections unveil potential dangers to the safety of passengers and crews, the service would step in and halt or delay any departures from port. The inspections are conducted separately from regular annual compliance inspections and periodic exams. They will include walk-throughs of deck, galley, and machinery spaces. Port state control officers will look for potential fire hazards, firefighting equipment, and escape plans in cases of emergency.