DOCUMENTS FROM THE 1982 FALKLANDS WAR

Air Raid Precautions Issued By Stanley Civil Defence Committee

Air-raid Precautions

It is most unlikely that the town of Stanley or its inhabitants will be affected by any potential hostilities.  Nevertheless it is common sense to be prudent in times like these and the following information is presented for your guidance in the event of an air-raid warning being sounded.  

The information in Appendix 'A' is for those who wish to stay in their own homes.  Those who would like to go to a place of shelter other than their own homes are requested to give their names to the person delivering this leaflet.  When all names have been collected, shelter rations will be allocated. Further information is contained in Appendix 'B'.

Appendix 'A' - For those happy at home

a.  If your house has a central lobby, use it as your shelter.

b.  Move furniture to outside of shelter area.

c.  Stick heavy paper to windows and panel glass using treacle / syrup / jam.

d.  Cover doors with mattresses.

e.  Provide water container and simple high-energy rations (glucose, chocolates, biscuits).

f.  If possible fill the window embrasures with sandbags.

g.  Provide emergency toilet facilities (you may not be able to get to the WC) buckets, disinfectant, toilet paper

h.  Provide mattress to lie on plus blanket and/or cushions

i.  Provide radio for local station and spare batteries.

j.  Provide torches and spare batteries and/or candles.

k.  Cut off any fuel supply to house.

l.  Cut off water supply, drain tank.

m.  Provide books / toys / cards as required.

n.  FIRST AID.  There is no need for elaborate first aid kits.  In fact the most useful item to have at hand is a clean linen sheet which can be torn into strips if required for compression pads and bandages.  If cuts are sustained, bind a pad of linen to the area and secure with plastic strips.  Do not interfere with the wound or attempt to remove any material.  Calm and reassure the injured person and obtain qualified assistance as soon as possible.  Do not administer alcohol, food or drink, until medical advice has been taken.

It should be understood that the above notes are not instructions, they are simply notes for your guidance to be acted on if you see fit.  Finally, if possible contact the hospital as soon as you can after assembly in your house to help them account for the population.

Appendix 'B' - Those going to a shelter station

Have bag packed ready containing:-

a.  A flask containing water.
b.  A few simple rations (chocolates, sweets, biscuits).
c.  Torch and spare batteries.
d.  Toilet paper / tissues
e.  Diversion for any children (books / toys)

NB.  Carry a cushion and wear warm clothing.

Source: John Smith, '74 Days: An Islander's Diary of the Falklands Occupation', Century, 1984 

Introduction, Brief History, Timeline, 1982 Articles, 1982 Timeline, 1982 Documents, Articles, Agreements, UN Resolutions
HOME, FACT FILE, BACKGROUND, HISTORY, BOOKS, LINKS

Site Designed and Maintained by eb-host.com