Who had gas masks in Britain by September of 1939 why?

By September 1939, gas masks were distributed to the general public in Britain, including children and adults, in anticipation of potential gas attacks during World War II. The British government recognized the threat posed by chemical warfare, particularly from Germany, and initiated a mass production and distribution campaign to ensure the safety of its citizens. The gas masks were designed to protect against various toxic gases and were considered a crucial part of civil defense preparations.