Why did they have blackout curtains in ww2?

Blackout regulations began to be enforced in Britain in 1939. They required that all windows and doors were covered at night so that not even a glimmer could escape to eyes of enemy pilots. The government ensured that blackout material was available and affordable for every household.

When was the blackout introduced in ww2?

1 September 1939
Blackout. The first real effect of the Second World War for most British civilians was the blackout, which was introduced on 1 September 1939, two days before war was actually declared.

What was a blackout like in ww2?

‘Blackout’ regulations came into force as the war began. These meant that families had to cover up all windows at night to ensure that no light escaped that could aid enemy bombers to find their targets. Street lamps were also switched off and car headlights covered except for a narrow slit.

Why were there blackouts in Europe during WW2?

There’s A War On! When nighttime air raids threatened many major cities in northern Europe, area-wide blackouts were instated. Allied leaders believed that without man-made light coming from cities, bomber planes would have trouble navigating by sight and reaching their targets. Cover up!

How did the blackout protect ships during WW1?

In coastal regions, a shoreside blackout of city lights also helped protect ships from being seen silhouetted against the artificial light by enemy submarines farther out at sea.

What is a blackout curtain?

A blackout curtain used in Auckland, New Zealand during World War II. Lights can simply be turned off or light can sometimes be minimized by tarring the windows of large public structures. In World War II, a dark blackout curtain was used to keep the light inside. Tarring the windows can mean a semi-permanent blackout status.

What were the effects of the blackout of 1939?

The blackout caused serious problems for people travelling by motor car. In September 1939 it was announced that the only car sidelights were allowed. The results were alarming. Car accidents increased and the number of people killed on the roads almost doubled.