The Archive · 1939

Singapore "Black-Out" Proves Effective

People Ca-operate with Military Authorities Singapore, Feb. 23.

The first of two "blackouts," part of the preparations for the combined British fleet and fortress manceuvres here, was successful held tonight. The "black-out" tested the island's air raid precaution schemes. The next black-o will be held tomorrow between 3.30 and 6.30 a.m.

Tonight's "black-out" lasted from 6.30 to 830 p.m.

The "black-out" tonight was most successful because the people cooperated fully, although the authorities did not issue intensive instructions. Business ceased in Chinatown and crowds gathered in the streets, cheering when the lights were flashed on again.

This marked the initial trial of "black-outs" for the whole island, including the naval and air bases, the military cantonments, Fort Canning, the Government House and all residential districts.

Civilian and military observes watched the effects of the "blackout" from planes, ships and posts atop hills. Special police detachments patrolled the wharves where almost 100 vessels dimmed their lights.—United Press.

Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.

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