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Duration 1:15

If war should come

The four extracts from this film cover essential preparations against possible attack in 1939. The first urges people to build their Anderson shelters, then advises on blackout and finally provides advice on putting on a gas mask.

Context

At this time Britain was most concerned about air raids. In the 1930s air raids were considered to be a new and potentially terrifying weapon. However, it was not until 1940 that British cities experienced really big air raids.

Interesting or important points about the film

The government made this film and clearly shows that they were concerned people were as fully prepared for air attack as possible. It is also interesting to compare the slightly commanding tone of this early film with later films.