Knowledge of where the shelters were in their sector so they could advise people during an air raid warning where their nearest shelter was located.
Patrolling the streets of their area ensuring that everyone obeyed the ‘blackout’ regulations.
It was the warden’s job to make sure that the public stayed away from any unexploded bombs until the bomb disposal unit could defuse them. A 600-yard radius had to be enforced around the bomb.
To encourage people to carry their gas masks with them at all times. The ARP wardens had to carry out monthly gas mask checks in their area.
The wardens’ were trained in first aid and their skills were often first on the scene after a bomb had been dropped. The ability to cope in an emergency and act quickly and correctly was important.
To report fires to the fire brigade.
It was the responsibility of the warden to liase with the fire service and bomb disposal teams and to inform them as soon as they could about emergency situations.
To report at once if the presence of gas is suspected and to sound the alarm.
To assist the occupant of buildings which have been damaged to find new shelter.
To guide the police, fire brigade, first aid parties, rescue parties etc to the scene of damage.
To help householders or the personnel of fire posts to fight incipient fires before the arrival of the fire brigade.
The wardens weren’t called on to put themselves in dangerous situations beyond their duties, it was more important for them to remain able to send reports promptly.
On patrol during a raid two wardens had to walk at least 10 to 20 yards away from each other to diminish the chances of them both being hit or killed.
The duties of a warden stepped down once the ‘all clear’ siren was heard but these procedures could happen several times during a shift.
Women made up one sixth of all wardens.