- HANDEL
HANDEL was the code-name for the UK's National Attack Warning System in the
Cold War . It consisted of a small console consisting of two microphones, lights and gauges. The reason behind this was to provide a back-up if anything failed.If an enemy air strike was detected, a key on the left hand side of the console would be turned and two lights would come on. Then the operator would press & hold down a red button and give the message:
"ATTACK WARNING RED! ATTACK WARNING RED!
The message would be sent to the police by the telephone carrier wave frequencies used for the
speaking clock , who would in turn activate the air attack sirens using the local telephone lines. The rationale was to kill two birds with one stone, as it reduced running costs (it would most likely be used only once in its working life, though it was regularly tested) and the telephone lines were under constant test by sharing with a public service. That means a fault could be detected in time to give a warning.A Handel Warning console can be seen at
The Imperial War Museum inLondon among theircold war exhibits, alongside the warning apparatus used byKent Police (which was located atMaidstone police station to activate the sirens).ee also
*
Four minute warning External links
* [http://www.btinternet.com/~pdbean/attack.mp3 A dramatised example of how this system worked, taken from the BBC Drama, Threads.]
* [http://www.ringbell.co.uk/ukwmo/overview.htm An explanation of how the system worked]
* [http://www.ringbell.co.uk/ukwmo/warncard.htm A copy of the instruction card, showing you how to use it]
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