Latest news with #CodyCandee
The Independent
5 days ago
- Health
- The Independent
Revealed: Secret cruise ship codes and their meanings – from the ones for disasters to symbols for swingers
The last thing the captain wants on a cruise ship during an emergency is mass panic. So, to prevent it, secret code words are used to alert crew members to danger or medical emergencies. These codes not only help to suppress alarm among passengers, but prevent misunderstandings among crew and mean that training for emergency responses can be standardized. How crew are notified of emergencies varies depending on the cruise company, but here, with help from Cody Candee, CEO of travel luggage firm we reveal some of the codes reportedly used by major lines including Royal Caribbean, Disney, Norwegian and Carnival. Some you'll hope to never hear. We also reveal that it's not just the crew who use codes. Passengers use them too to let others know they're in the market for something a bit more personal… Oscar, Oscar, Oscar This is the code on Royal Caribbean and Celebrity ships to signal that someone has gone overboard. Cody reveals: "When this happens, the ship will typically stop and launch a coordinated search-and-rescue operation. This process includes deploying lifeboats and activating onboard safety procedures to locate and recover the individual. "If you happen to hear this code while on deck, stay vigilant. And if you spot someone in the water, immediately inform a cruise worker." Charlie, Charlie, Charlie On board Royal Caribbean ships, this code is used to for a security threat. Though on some ships it's used as a warning for severe weather conditions. Cody says: "Whether it's an approaching storm or a potential risk nearby, it signals increased vigilance and may lead to precautionary measures to ensure the safety of everyone onboard. If you hear this code, you must remain calm and await instructions." Operation Rising Star/Operation Brightstar Operation Brightstar is used for medical emergencies on Disney and Carnival ships, while Operation Rising Star is used to alert staff about a death on board. Cody says: "If you hear Operation Rising Star, there is no need to be alarmed. The cruise staff will have already informed who the deceased was traveling with before making an official announcement to the rest of the passengers. Cruise ships also have international regulations and standards they must adhere to, including the legal requirement to have a morgue on board in case of fatalities." Red parties/bravo, bravo, bravo These are both used to indicate a fire on board. Cody says: "In the event of a fire, trained crew members will act quickly to contain and extinguish the flames, while others work to ensure passenger safety through coordinated evacuation procedures." Echo, echo, echo "Another signal you don't want to hear on a cruise," says Cody. "Normally repeated three times, 'echo, echo, echo' can mean 'brace for collision'. "This could indicate an impact with another ship or land, as well as dangers posed by strong winds or drifting while in port." Zulu, Zulu, Zulu This is the code for a fight for several cruise companies. Kilo, kilo, kilo Royal Caribbean staff will go to their emergency stations upon hearing this, it's been reported. Purell, purell, purell If you hear this on a Celebrity ship, followed by a location, it means there is vomit for the crew to clean up. Delta, delta, delta This repetition is used in two ways by cruise companies, either for bio-hazards or hull damage. Pink flamingos This isn't crew code, but a symbol used by passengers to indicate that they're in the market for swinging, according to Cody. He says: "Many people are already aware of the upside-down pineapple as a well-known sign for swinging or 'wife swapping' when displayed on a cabin door or an item of clothing. "However, as the symbol becomes more widely recognized, many cruise lines are cracking down on the use of this symbol on cabin doors. Other discreet symbols, such as pink flamingos, are gaining popularity as an alternative code for the same lifestyle." If a passenger is wearing a blue wristband or ring, says Cody, it could mean they're looking to meet a new romantic partner.
Yahoo
19-05-2025
- Yahoo
Pork pies, goldfish, and a chainsaw: The weirdest items seized at airport security
If you've ever been worried about what items are acceptable to take through airport security, you're far from alone. From power banks to food, prescriptions to liquids, the not insignificant list of prohibited goods can add an additional layer of anxiety to a trip. Now, a new study has revealed the strangest things Britons have tried to carry through security that make your rogue lighter look like child's play. Storage network analysed news stories, airport forums and Reddit threads to produce this alarming list. Staff at Leeds Bradford Airport were bewildered to discover an entire suitcase packed exclusively with pork pies. Transporting large quantities of food, especially meat products, can raise questions from airport security officials, as bringing meat into Great Britain from the EU is illegal. At London's Stansted Airport, security staff were astonished to find a jar of sweets containing a pair of live goldfish swimming inside. Unsurprisingly, transporting live animals in hand luggage is strictly prohibited. And at East Midlands Airport, one bold passenger packed a chainsaw in their hand luggage. Tools and sharp equipment are all forbidden in cabin bags, making this handheld power saw a definite no-no. Even something as seemingly innocuous as a snow globe isn't safe. Staff at London's Heathrow Airport seized one traveller's kitsch souvenir as it exceeded the liquid limit for carry-on luggage – a reminder that even decorative items can violate airport rules. While some travellers opt for culinary home comforts on their travels, such as teabags or Marmite, one traveller at London City Airport attempted to smuggle a 680g jar of pickled gherkins in vinegar through security. Unusual items are far from being confined to the UK, however. A boa constrictor, maggots and antique cannon balls are just a handful of the items seized by security officials in the US. To avoid any awkward interactions, Cody Candee, CEO and founder of advises travellers how to avoid being caught out at the airport. 'Holidaymakers should check the requirements with the airport they're flying from, as well as their arrival airport, before travelling to ensure they aren't caught out. 'To avoid liquid restrictions altogether, travellers can instead pack solid versions of toiletries where available, such as toothpaste tablets, solid deodorants, and shampoo, conditioner, and soap bars. 'Not only will these types of products save space, but they are also more environmentally friendly and security-approved. 'If you're unsure, either pack the item into your checked-in luggage or leave it behind.'
Yahoo
25-03-2025
- Yahoo
Birmingham New Street Station ranks 'worst for pickpocketing outside of London'
Birmingham New Street Station ranks the 'worst for pickpocketing offences outside of London,' new data has revealed. There were 62 pickpocket incidents at the city travel hub between January and December last year. That is just over 40 percent higher than the second highest at Leeds Railway Station with 37 incidents, while Manchester Piccadilly came third recording 30 incidents over the same time frame. READ MORE: All-out Birmingham bin strikes prompts 'renters to desert city' READ MORE: Triple killer's weapon of choice on sale for less than £100 - and there's no licensing system READ MORE: Midland beauty spot homes under hammer for £375k - and they make money British Transport Police data was released through Freedom of Information requests by the luggage storage network to determine the number of pickpocketing offences throughout train stations in Britain. Cody Candee, the CEO and Founder of shares his tips on protecting your belongings in train stations. He said: 'Train stations are some of the busiest public spaces, making them a prime target for opportunistic thieves. Extra precautions can make all the difference in keeping your personal belongings safe. 'A secure luggage storage service can help prevent theft, especially when exploring crowded areas. Using a trusted luggage storage service means you can travel around the city hands-free without worrying about keeping an eye on your bags. "Bounce offers secure storage at over 10,000 locations in over 2,000 cities, making it easy to find a safe spot near major train stations worldwide. 'If you're carrying your bags, always keep them within sight. Wear backpacks on your front in crowded areas, and keep suitcases close, especially near escalators and ticket barriers. "Avoid leaving bags on the floor or unattended on a seat when waiting for a train. If you do put your bag down, loop a bag strap around your arm or leg to prevent quick grabs. 'Scammers and pickpockets often work in teams, using distraction tactics to steal valuables. Be wary of anyone causing a scene, and stay alert in crowded spaces. "Whether storing your bags securely or keeping them close, a little extra caution can result in a stress-free journey."
