The Smoking Lamp is Lit

Posted by Bob July 13, 2000In reply to The Smoking Lamp is Lit posted by jane austin on July 13, 2000

origin/meaning of this phrase?

during WWII in (at least) the U. S. Navy, smoking on board ship was restricted to certain times and places. The appropriate times would be indicated by a lamp, which would turn on, accompanied by an announcement "The smoking lamp is lighted. Smoking is premitted in all authorized places." (Or words to that effect.)

Replies

The Smoking Lamp is Lit Bruce Kahl 07/13/00
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