Ratchet (Gas) Rattle - Noise maker. It is possibly a replica. The former (possibly double numbered 2012.013.001). It is marked with a large "G". The gas alarm rattle is a hand operated ratchet device that makes a loud clacking sound when turned rapidly. Soldiers of the British Empire forces used rattles in some instances as alarms to warn others of the presence of chemical weapons. British Empire troops used a variety of devices as anti-gas alarms throughout the war. Low maintenance alarms could be improvised by converting empty large-calibre brass cartridge cases into bells or gongs, like dinner bells. These alarms were installed at regular intervals in the front trenches and sounded if a gas attack was suspected. Installing bells, gongs, or air horns in the trenches was a relatively simple matter, but a way to spread the alarm was also required on roadways and temporary positions further to the rear. Air horns and bells were less practical in such instances, because they were not easily portable, and could not readily be sounded by troops on the march. As a temporary measure, soldiers might bang their bayonets on their steel helmets, but this was not ideal, as it involved removing the helmet and leaving the head exposed. The gas alarm rattle offered a better solution, because it was lightweight, portable and had a simple, inexpensive design. There was some fear that sound of the gas alarm rattle might be mistaken for machine-gun fire and ignored. However, this was not the case, and the gas alarm rattle was a reasonably effective local alarm. Soldiers were also trained to spread the word of a gas alarm verbally, tapping on the shoulder of the next soldier, and passing the news down the line. As the gas alarm rattle became more common, some, upon suspecting the presence of gas, would shout “rattles!” as they donned their respirators.