NOW COMPULSORY

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 85, Issue 299, 19 December 1941, Page 4

NOW COMPULSORY

BLACKOUT PREPARATIONS NEW REGULATIONS ISSUED I nder extensions to the lighting control regulations, every dwelling and building in Wanganui must have one room prepared for an immediate and complete blackout at any time, said the District Lighting Controller, Mr. H. Webb, at a meeting of the Wanganui E.P.S. Executive Committee last night. Every occupier of premises, including dwellings, Mr. Webb added, was required to comply with these new regulations immediately. The room, or rooms, must be sufficiently large to accommodate the greatest number of people likely to be in the building al any time, and must be prepared iii such a way that they could be blacked out immediately an alarm was given. It was essential that screens or blinds which would completely prevent the passage of light should be hold in readiness for this purpose. Lighting wardens would be appointed to see that these regulations were carried out. and the question of personnel fc.r this work must be con. iderod immediately, said Mr. Webb. He added that at least 100 new ward ns would be required, and that an inspection of the city and suburbs should be made onee a weekin many respects he thougl’* members of the Women a War Service Auxiliary could assist, but it had been suggested that they should patrol in pairs, said Mr. Webb. “I don't think it would be possible for the Law and Order wardens to carry out this work, because in an emergency they would have other duties,” Mr. Webb added. "It may be necessary to create another group.' Mrs- J. G. Denniston said the W.W.S.A. would co-operate to the fullest extent possible. The Food Controller, Mr. F. H Bethwaite, said he had men in his section who could possibly carry nut the duties of lighting wardens. They were well organised and in the meantime could act in this capacity. Mr. Webb: If Mr. Betlhwaite could provide enough men it would be a happy solution.