On the Sea.

Taihape Daily Times, 19 March 1918, Page 6

On the Sea.

TAKING GRAVE RISKS SHIPS' UNSCREENED LIGHTS. LONDON, March 6. In his appeal concerning the darkening of ships Sir Eric Geddes said: "I am most seriously concerned at the increasing number of vessels lost at night time, losses often due to negligence. Unless all navigational lights ate screened or extinguished darkness does not afford any protection. The slightest visible light is an excellent target, enabling an invisible submarine to secure a good attacking position.

"Out own submarine commanders are constantly reporting our steamers at night time with brilliant lights. One report showed that during one hour only one out of eight ships was properly darkened. The lights of the ether seven were visible from a distance of from four to 10 miles."

Therefore he appealed to shipmasters and to the press to give prominence to the following points: "Obey instructions, keep a good lookout and thoroug-iiy darken the ship."