Air Raid Precaution Warden uniform

Air Raid Precaution Uniform (129.1987)

Miss Olive Brookway served as an Air Raid Precaution (ARP) Warden in the Portmore Park area of Weybridge. This uniform was worn by Olive during her wartime service, a visible symbol of her responsibility for keeping her community safe during some of the most dangerous moments of the Second World War.

Long before the first bombs fell, the British Government began planning how to protect the Home Front. As early as September 1935, preparations were underway, and by 1937 the ARP service had been established. By the outbreak of war in 1939, around 1.5 million people were already involved in civil defence across the country.

ARP wardens were often the first point of contact during air raids. Their duties included registering residents, raising the alarm, enforcing the blackout, directing people to shelters, assisting the rescue and clear-up efforts, and carefully recording bombing incidents using official bomb report forms.

In Elmbridge, approximately ten wardens were appointed per square mile, making them a constant and reassuring presence. Through their vigilance and dedication, wardens like Olive Brookway played a vital role in protecting local residents and maintaining order in times of crisis.