The balloon has gone up

Posted by James Briggs on January 09, 2002

In Reply to: The balloon has gone up posted by Christine on January 09, 2002

: Does anyone know the origin of the phrase, "The balloon has gone up" - meaning the signal to take action has been received? I have a feeling it's war-related but don't know!
: Any help appreciated.
: christine

When the balloon goes up is a phrase used to imply impending trouble. This relates to the use of observation balloons in the first World War. The sight of such a balloon going up nearly always resulted in a barrage of shells following soon after. The expression was re-inforced during WWII when the hoisting of barrage balloons was part of the preparations for an air raid.

• The balloon has gone up Jim 01/09/02
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