How to Fit a Gas Mask

1939
Sound
2m

Matter-of-fact wartime instruction in how to fit your gas mask efficiently - leaving no margin for error.

This no-nonsense public information film imparts a direct message from the government about something that affected everybody's daily life in wartime - how to wear a gas mask correctly and the need to always have it with you. Precise instructions are imparted in a necessarily urgent manner, with no room for frills.

'Fillers' like this were used to plug holes in the cinema programme and were originally created by the Ministry of Information to quickly spread knowledge, civil defence intelligence or policies to the cinemagoing public.

A demonstration of the correct way to put on and remove gas masks.

WWII at the Pictures

Once the cinemas were declared open for business, the film industry kept the reels turning, serving up a mixed diet of news, morale-boosting propaganda and uplifting entertainment.

In the early days of the war, cinemas were closed as a public safety measure, but authorities were soon persuaded of film's many virtues in wartime. Newsreels kept spirits up and relayed vital information, documentaries rigorously explored every aspect of life and work on the home front, and an array of animations and short films imparted practical tips and guidance.

Feature films, meanwhile, offered equal parts inspiring wartime stories and escapist fantasy to bring relief from everyday trials. And with gender roles evolving and so many men away from home, producers were forced to pay more attention (long overdue!) to the tastes and interests of women cinemagoers - with fascinating and enduring results.