I picked up Minicraft's 1/144 kit of Pres. Truman's DC-6.( The Independence) The instructions include a section from the 1947 brochure that was handed out to visitors who flew aboard the plane. I found this one section particularly interesting:
Parachute Briefing: Parachutes are available for all passengers aboard " The Independence". The possibility of using parachutes is very slight; however as an additional safety pre caution the following information is included in order that passengers may know the proper procedure for the use of parachutes.
The parachutes aboard "The Independence" are for your safety and are the back pack type with a quick adjustable type harness.
The proper method of leaving the aircraft is to dive out head first and straight down. The most important single act in any parachute jump is the opening of the parachute only when you have cleared the aircraft.
In the event it becomes necessary to 'bail out' please follow the instructions of " The Independence" crew members who are thoroughly trained and competent in facilitating a orderly and safe "bail out".....
Hope you guys got the chuckle I had while reading the above. Mike IPMS