Cruise Line Bans Popular Electronic Device

I didn’t realize there were so many things that are banned by cruise lines on their giant ships. When I think of banned items the first thing that comes to mind is an iron. Isn’t that what everyone thinks of first?

I learned a scary lesson about irons on cruise ships many years ago when my wife, Kathleen, and I went on a Hawaiian cruise for our honeymoon.

Neither of us had ever been on a cruise before and didn’t know what to expect. One of the things we packed was an iron. We didn’t consider how dangerous a hot iron could be on a cruise ship. With all the movement of the ship, if left on, it will most likely fall off of whatever it’s on and a fire is a sure thing. That makes sense, but we had no idea.

After checking in and finally getting into our cabin, we noticed a bag was missing and there was a note to please go to the security area regarding our luggage.

We were clueless and I made my way down to the specified area. I waited in a long line and during the wait saw several different people being scolded for having alcohol, a knife, candles, and many other things.

My mind was racing, “We didn’t bring any of those things, what could it be?” Finally, it was my turn and the security officer was very nice and explained that it was a travel iron. We forgot we packed it and they’re a fire risk if left unattended.

Now you can add one more thing to the list of cruise ship-banned items to go along with weapons, tea kettles, drugs, and everything else, blue tooth speakers.

According to Cruise Fever, Carnival Cruise Line is banning Bluetooth speakers and other audio devices due to passenger misuse, including playing loud music on balconies and pool decks. The cruise line has received complaints about noise pollution and the interference with other passengers' relaxation. They say that the ban aims “to create a more peaceful environment on board and prevent safety concerns, such as passengers missing important announcements. Carnival's decision reflects the need to maintain a harmonious atmosphere for all guests during their cruise experience.”

They’ve also banned boom boxes, radios, and anything else with amplification that could create an issue.

I guess that makes sense, but if they’re worried about passengers missing important announcements then they’ll need to ban any type of earbuds too.

It's only mid-November, but if you're anything like me, you're already starting to get into the holiday spirit. And even if you're not, Thanksgiving is quickly approaching, so it can't be put off too much longer. Soon it will be time to bake cookies and hang the stockings with care. But if you're looking for festive events that'll get you out of the house and spending time with your family sometime soon, look no further than local Christmas tree lightings. They're wonderful events that signal the start of the holiday season.

Here in Ocean County, there are a bunch of towns that are having tree lighting this year, so you won't have to go far. I've done the hard work of researching for you, so all you have to do is scroll down and find the one closest to you! Plus, there's a couple on the list where you might just spot our, or our sister station WJRZ's, promo team. If you decide to stop by any of the tree lighting on the list, take pictures and tag us on social media! We'd love to see you getting into the Christmas spirit!

Downtown Toms River will be having their tree lighting on December 6th from 5-7pm in the courtyard of Town Hall. Santa will be there and hot cocoa and cookies will be for sale!

The Ocean County Board of Commissioners will be holding a tree lighting on December 4th at 4:45pm on the West Lawn of the County Administration Building on Hooper Ave. Music will be provided by the Pine Beach Elementary School Chorus and there will be cookies and juice after the tree is lit.

Pine Beach will be having their annual tree lighting on December 1st at the Pine Beach Borough Hall. If you'd like to be apart of the wreath making activity, you need to make reservations ahead of time and it begins at 2pm. Otherwise, the festivities start at 3:45 with face painting, craft making, and hot cocoa & snacks. The tree will be lit at 4:30pm and Santa might just be there

Ship Bottom will be having their tree lighting this year on November 30th from 5-7pm at the 10th & Shore Ave Municipal Boat Ramp. There will also be hot chocolate and s'mores by the fire!

Point Pleasant Beach will be having a tree lighting on November 29th from 5:30 to 8pm at 601 Arnold Ave. There will be a DJ, horse & carriage rides, refreshments, and children's activities. Plus, you can get your photo taken with Santa!

Barnegat Township will be holding it's 4th Annual Holiday Farmer's and Pop-Up Craft Market on December 7th from 12-6pm at Fred Watts Gazebo Park. There will be holiday crafters, carolers, Santa, and the event will culminate with the town's tree lighting at 6pm.

The New Egypt Flea Market will be holding a tree lighting and shopping event on December 6th from 5-9pm. There will be tons of vendors and food trucks. Plus, it's pet friendly! The tree lighting will begin at 7:30pm sharp.