When will people learn that a joke about having a bomb is never taken as a joke? We believe this statement has always been true, but is especially so in our heightened state of paranoia about security. Just to reiterate this truth, two Seattle gentlemen temporarily halted ferry service on Sunday, after making a joke about placing a bomb in the trunk of their car.

Ferry service between Kingston and Edmonds was delayed over an hour as the Washington State Patrol investigated the possible bomb threat. The bomb-sniffing dogs were called after a passenger reported overhearing another passenger say, "Let's put the bomb in the trunk." Knowing island folks, he probably actually said, "Let's put the bong in the trunk," and this was just a gigantic misunderstanding.

The bomb-sniffing dogs found nothing suspicious on the ferry and the passengers were allowed to re-board, save the mistaken bomber. He was arrested on an outstanding warrant. The Washington State Patrol is uncertain whether they will pursue criminal charges against the man regarding the false bomb threat.

Bomb Icon by Flickr User Geoff Stearns