Hammersmith Civil Defence Organisation - warning notice

Warning Notice form issued by Hammersmith Civil Defence Organisation to residents who infringed the Blackout regulations. The printed form notifies the 'occupier' that, in contravention of the Lighting (Restrictions) Order 1939, a light was visible shining from their premises. It comes with a caution that, if repeated, the householder would be liable to a £500 fine or a maximum penalty of 2 years in prison. The form is unused and would have been completed by hand with details of the occupier's address, the time of the infringement together with the signature of the post warden & the witnessing patrolling warden.
The warning refers to the enforced Blackout of buildings and streets during World War II. The Blackout was intended to hinder enemy bomber planes from identifying targets. Strict enforcement of Blackout regulations by local air-raid wardens was often unpopular and resented by Londoners unfamiliar with real darkness. Unlit streets caused confusion, fear and accidents. But for prostitutes, deserters and criminals, the Blackout also provided opportunities for moving undetected through the streets.