Verifying Straps
 

This is a little random, but I've noticed recently (at least my last 6 flights) that the pre-takeoff announcement to the flight attendents no longer includes "verify straps" (i.e., "flight attendants: cross check, verify straps, standby for all call"). It seems like CO still uses the straps across the window to indicate that the slides are armed, but no longer reminds the FAs to double check them. Is there some reason for the change? Just curious...

I think it just depends on the FA making the announcement. On a very recent MSP - IAH flight, the FA included "verify straps" in the pre-takeoff announcement, while on my flight from IAH to MIA the FA did not do so.

I'm not an FA so this may be off base but I think the callout is dependant on the aircraft. The strap is across the window on the door to indicate the arming of the slide. When the strap is visible, opening the door will set off the slide. Some aircraft have a different system to arm the slide and thus have a different indicator.

Of course I may be totally wrong :rolleyes:

I never hear that statement on COEX :D :D

No slides, no straps. ;)

Incidentally, that always kind of scares me when I think of my grandma or a handicapped person having to jump the 5 feet or so from the emergency exit to the ground in the event of an evacuation from an ERJ. :(

As has been said, straps are to do with slides, so no slides, no call for straps. Doors always have to be cross-checked (the door across the aisle). You'll only hear "stand by for all-call" on wide-bodies.

The straps have NOTHING to do with slides or the warning flag that is placed across the window when the door is armed. Straps refer to the fabric straps that are placed across the door opening when the door is open and there are no stairs or jetway attached. The usually attach next to the door when it is closed, or they are contained inside the door frame. 'Verify straps' means to check that the straps are inside the aircraft when the door is closed so that they don't bang against the side of the aircraft and cause damage.

The 767 and 777 are the only aircraft that don't have the warning flag across the window when the door is armed.

Well, seven posts so far and I'm still not sure what "verify straps", 'cross check" or "stand by for all call" mean. :confused:

Post #7 described the "verify straps" pretty well.

"Cross check " is a verbal reminder to all FAs to verify the doors for which other FAs are responsible for arming have indeed been armed.

"stand by for all call" This announcement is made on the 757, 777, 767. Immediately after arming "their" assigned door(s) the FAs participate in a verbal cross check of all of the doors. It is like a party line where the Lead calls all of the doors at once and everyone takes their turn giving the verbal cross check. It is tons of terrific fun.

Thanks! @:-)

So you mean it has nothing to do with whether or not the pilots are wearing a cup?

No, although most of them do for appearances!!! ;)

Even the female pilots?

A couple of them, yes. ;)