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Ambulance men, ARP wardens and members of the public taking part in a air raid exercise
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Ambulance men, ARP wardens and members of the public taking part in a air raid exercise
Ambulance men, ARP wardens and members of the public taking part in a air raid exercise at Dudley Road, Birmingham. September 1939
In 1935 the Home Office announced that local authorities would be responsible for drawing up plans for public protection and the implementing of Air Raid Protection services. Local councils were made responsible for raising and running a range of ARP services to train civilian volunteers for Stretcher Parties, First Aid Posts, Gas Decontamination Teams, Messengers and Rescue Parties. Both the local Fire Brigades and Ambulance Services were expanded and Auxiliaries were recruited and trained from the civilian population. By March 1939 it was reported that 10, 000 Wardens and 6, 000 Auxiliary Fire Service personnel across the West Midlands had been recruited and their training was well advanced
Staff
Birmingham Post and Mail Archive
Mirrorpix
Birmingham
West Midlands
England
Media ID 21840526
© Mirrorpix
1939 Air Raid Precautions Air Raid Warden Ambulance Service Casualty Civil Defence Emergency Services Exercises And Training Stretcher Thirties Tin Helmets War And Conflict
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a moment in history during an air raid exercise in Dudley Road, Birmingham, in September 1939. The image showcases the dedication and preparedness of the local community as they participate in civil defense training. In response to the escalating threat of war, the Home Office mandated that local authorities develop plans for public protection. This led to the establishment of Air Raid Protection (ARP) services, which trained civilian volunteers for various roles such as stretcher parties, first aid posts, gas decontamination teams, messengers, and rescue parties. The photograph depicts a scene bustling with activity. Ambulance men and ARP wardens can be seen working alongside members of the public who have volunteered their services. They are dressed in distinctive tin helmets and appear focused on their respective duties. By March 1939, thousands of wardens and auxiliary fire service personnel had been recruited across the West Midlands region alone. Their extensive training ensured they were well-prepared to handle any emergency situation that might arise during wartime. This print serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and unity displayed by communities throughout World War II's home front. It stands as a testament to those who selflessly dedicated themselves to protecting others amidst uncertain times.
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