Panic stations
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Emergency Response
Used to describe immediate reactions to sudden, urgent situations. 
We hit panic stations when the fire alarm sounded.
Pro Tip 2/3Figurative Use
The phrase 'panic stations' is not literal but indicates high stress. 
It's panic stations for students during final exams.
Pro Tip 3/3Hyperbole
Often used to exaggerate a reaction for effect, not a real panic. 
She declared it was panic stations when she couldn't find her keys.