Research

Scope and Content Note

This series contains correspondence, pamphlets, and posters sent between the Office of Civilian Protection's director and local, state, and federal organizations involved in civil defense and documents the director's work in coordinating defense preparations.

Topics covered by the records include: air raids (regulations, warning systems); blackouts; evacuation (plans, procedures); insignia for volunteers; and medical contingencies.

Individual report sheets from each community detail actions during practice air raids including: responsiveness; personnel present; traffic movement; telephone service; accidents; and first aid status.

Also found are drafts of a civil defense manual for New York State discussing: the role of local war councils, police, and fire fighters; water and power supplies; emergency food and shelter; and air raids.

Periodic reports from local civil defense operations of the OCP usually detail: local defense director's name; address of operations center; projects undertaken; volunteers registered; problems encountered; assistance required; and training sessions conducted.