- Code words of emergencies on a cruise ship are important as other provisions, so that the passengers can be aware of the situation on board.
- The crew members undergo intensive training on these codes before they enter into employment on the cruise.
An article in Reader’s Digest explains about the code words that let the passengers know what’s happening overboard.
Apart from packing things for a cruise, one should also be aware of the code words that are commonly used on the cruise ship.
Major cruise lines have come up with a variety of internal code words to use during an emergency or other situation.
Codes for emergencies
Certain codes are commonly used among different cruise lines to signal true emergencies, said Janet Semenova, an independent affiliate of Palm Coast Travel & Signature Travel Network.
These code words are used by crew members to discreetly communicate with each other when things go overboard.
Intensive training
Before anyone steps foot on the ship, cruise personnel and captains receive intensive training.
These drills show a certain level of competency that is mandated across all cruise lines, Semenova said.
Here are just a few examples of code words used on a cruise.
PVI and 30-30
One of the most common phrases heard on cruises is “PVI,” code for public vomiting, Semenova said.
All other general messes are communicated with the simple “30-30.”
Kilo and Bravo
Cruise personnels have pre-determined emergency posts to report to during an urgent situation, Semenova said.
To signal this, the word “Kilo” must be said. This next word doesn’t mean what we all think it means—”Bravo” signifies a fire onboard the ship, she added.
Charlie, Charlie, Charlie
“Charlie, Charlie, Charlie” is used when the captain wants to alert the crew that there is a security threat.
Alpha or Sierra, and Operation Bright Star or Rising Star
Medical emergencies on cruises don’t happen frequently, but when they do, there’s a host of code words to communicate the issue.
General medical emergencies use “Alpha” or “Sierra” when a stretcher is required, Semenova noted.
A severe medical emergency or a death on the ship may be signified with “Operation Bright Star” or “Operation Rising Star.”
Ship deaths happen rather frequently, Semenova said, and these words alert the crew to discreetly take care of the deceased.
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Source: Reader’s Digest
