Men painting warning signs for unexploded bombs, Sept 1939

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Men painting warning signs for unexploded bombs, Sept 1939

ARP volunteers painting wooden boards with; " keep clear unexploded bomb" to be used as a warning to civilians when a bomb fails to explode. Date: 1939

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Media ID 23269136

© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans

Bomb Bombs Paint Phoney Phony Precaution Precautions Preparation Preparations Raid Safety Shell Shells Signs Unexploded Volunteer Volunteers Warning Warnings

FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS

> Historic > World War I and II > Civilians during the war

> Mary Evans Prints Online > New Images August 2021

EDITORS COMMENTS
In this evocative black-and-white photograph, a group of ARP (Air Raid Precautions) volunteers diligently paint warning signs on wooden boards in September 1939. The impending threat of unexploded bombs looms large over this scene, as the volunteers work tirelessly to ensure the safety of civilians during the early days of World War II. The Second World War, also known as WWII or World War 2, had begun just a few weeks earlier, on September 1, 1939, with Germany's invasion of Poland. The skies above Britain were soon filled with the ominous drone of enemy aircraft, and the ground below was not immune to the devastation of war. Unexploded bombs, or "duds," were a constant danger, and the ARP volunteers played a crucial role in minimizing the risk they posed to the civilian population. The volunteers, dressed in their distinctive blue helmets and coats, are seen painting the words "Keep Clear Unexploded Bomb" on the wooden boards. The signs, which would be placed around the area of a suspected unexploded bomb, served as a vital warning to civilians to stay clear of the danger zone. The volunteers' work was a crucial part of the broader war effort, as it helped to prevent unnecessary casualties and minimize the damage caused by unexploded bombs. The scene is one of grim determination and unwavering commitment, as the volunteers work under the watchful eye of their supervisor. The air raid sirens wail in the background, a constant reminder of the ever-present threat of attack. Despite the danger, the volunteers remain focused on their task, their paintbrushes deftly adding the final touches to the warning signs. This powerful image serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and resilience of the British people during the dark days of World War II.

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