This is an original WW2 British ARP anti-gas protective hood issued for Civil Defence use on the Home Front.

Designed for use by Air Raid Precautions (ARP) personnel, Auxiliary Fire Service (AFS) members, fire watchers and other Civil Defence workers, these protective hoods were intended to be worn over the head and upper body in the event of gas attack. Constructed from rubberised and oil-treated fabric, the material has a waxed mackintosh-like feel, designed to resist chemical contamination and protect clothing and exposed skin.

Unlike the standard civilian respirator issued to the general public, this type of hood was specialist equipment and not widely distributed outside Civil Defence services. Britain ultimately did not suffer gas attacks during WW2, meaning most examples saw storage rather than operational use.

The hood retains its original draw cords and metal eyelets, with visible period stencilling to the interior. The overall form is complete and displays very well, making it a strong and unusual Home Front display piece.

Condition is typical for rubberised wartime material. The fabric shows creasing, surface wear and age-related stiffening. There is at least one visible tear to the lower section, along with general storage wear and surface marking. It remains suitable for display and if displayed on a hat stand of mannequin head it will look excellent. There are markings on the inside, one of which being the Broad Arrow but unfortunately, the rest I can’t make out.

A scarce and characterful example of British Civil Defence equipment from the Home Front.

Hat stand not included!