CHEMICAL WARFARE

Manawatu Standard, Volume LV, Issue 258, 28 September 1935, Page 10

CHEMICAL WARFARE

DANGERS TO SHIPPING. PRECAUTIONS ADVOCATED, (United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph.—Copyright.) Received Sep Lem her 20, 12.45 p.m. LONDON, Sept. 27. The latest anti-air raid precautions handbook, of which the Government is issuing a series, deals with merchant shipping which, according to the opinion expressed, is likely to be attacked by mustard or similar persistent gas necessitating protective clothing, such as respirators, oilskin suits and rubber sea boots, while the ship must immediately be decontaminated otherwise she will remain dangerous for weeks. Port authorities must appoint an antigas officer, who will certify the freedom of outM-ard-bound ships and their cargoes from gas, and also warn shipmasters when there is a likelihood of an air attack, thus enabling the necessary precautions to be taken. The handbook recommends that, in the event of an outbreak of war, ships likely to be exposed to gas attack should be provided with canvas covers, bleach-powder, paraffin, protective clothing, shower baths and boiling facilities for decontaminating clothing.