AIR RAID TESTS

Hokitika Guardian, 21 September 1937, Page 5

AIR RAID TESTS

BERLIN’S REALISTIC MANOEUVRES. (United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright). BERLIN, Sept, 29. The most realistic of the air raid manoeuvres yet held in Europe opened to-day in Berlin while the citizens woro at breakfast. Sirens streamed out, ami warning planes appeared, flying low under a leaden sky.

The din of the anti-aircraft guns and the crash of the •■bombs” was deafening. The streets were empty almost instantly. As the trams and buses stopped the population dashed to the nearest, refuges. those who were having breakfast ip their homes were obliged to dash down lifto' tho cellars.

Ambulances rushed imaginary wounded to hospitals. Ihe police took the names ol all those not complying with the orders to take pelage. It was announced that the Ministry of Propaganda had been burnt down, and most of the officials killed. The hotel Kaiserhqf, opposite the Chancellery, caught fire, and fire brigades were called to the spot. Ail protection squads rushed up to fight the flames.

The manoeuvres will continue every week. Every light must be extinguished each night, and even the hospitals must carry out their operations behind darkened windows.

Although the Government has stressed the importance of carrying on the normal life ot the city, the lestaurants and cinemas expect serious losses, as the people are reluctant to grope their way in pitch black streets, hi which they are prohibited even from striking a match.