Inspector Sands

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Inspector Sands is a code phrase used by public transport authorities in the United Kingdom, including Network Rail and London Underground, to alert staff and other agencies, such as the police, to an emergency or potential emergency such as a fire or bomb scare without alerting the public and creating panic.[1][2] The exact wording depends on the station, and the nature of the incident, for example "Would Inspector Sands please report to the operations room immediately" or "would Inspector Sands please report to platform 2".

Announcement used at Euston railway station

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"Mr Sands" has long been used in theatres as a code for fire, where sand buckets were used to put out fires. The word "fire" backstage would cause alarm to either performers or audience.


  2. ^ "Notes and Queries". The Guardian.