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The ARP Wardens Suit, September 1939
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The ARP Wardens Suit, September 1939
Female ARP warden modelling " the latest" wartime suit with a helmet. From October 1939, ARP uniforms featuring bluette overalls were issued however until then an ARP warden would wear their clothing of choice with the ARP badge and armband as the woman in the picture does. Date: 1939
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Media ID 23269172
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Females Helmets Jul19 Protection Raid Raids Safety Suits
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures the image of a determined and resilient woman donning the latest wartime attire as an Air Raid Precautions (ARP) warden in September 1939. With the looming threat of air raids during World War II (WWII), the British government urged civilians to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the imminent danger. The woman in the photograph wears a civilian outfit of her choice, accessorized with the essential ARP badge and armband. At this point in time, official ARP uniforms, including the iconic bluette overalls, had not yet been issued. Instead, volunteers like this woman relied on their own clothing to ensure they were easily identifiable as ARP wardens during the chaos of an air raid. The woman's helmet, a crucial component of her makeshift uniform, is designed to protect her from flying debris and potential gas attacks. The helmet's distinctive shape and design were common during this era, reflecting the innovative solutions developed to address the unique challenges posed by the war. As the months passed, and the threat of air raids became a daily reality, official ARP uniforms were issued to ensure a consistent and effective response. However, this photograph serves as a reminder of the resourcefulness and adaptability of the British people during the early days of WWII, as they embraced their roles as protectors of their communities in the face of adversity.
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