(g) Officers will live in close proximity to their guns. They will daily inspect their guns, emplacements, and ammunition. They are responsible for the cleanliness and maintenance of the emplacements.
(h) The machine-gun company commander is responsible that his guns are always ready for action, that the emplacements are clear of all material except such as is required for the service of the gun, that embrasures or loopholes are kept clear of all obstructions which may interfere with fire or view, and that the ammunition is in good condition.
8. COOPERATION BETWEEN ARTILLERY, INFANTRY, MACHINE-GUN COMPANIES, AND TRENCH MORTAR BATTERIES.—The defense of any line depends largely on the cordial cooperation of all officers responsible for the different means of defense. Every opportunity is to be taken by officers of artillery, infantry, machine-gun companies, and trench mortar batteries of becoming personally acquainted with each other and gaining a knowledge of each other's methods. The Artillery liaison officer with a battalion is to be looked on as temporarily a member of battalion H. Q.
9. PRECAUTIONS WHEN ONE OF OUR MINES IS EXPLODED.—(a) In the event of one of our own mines being exploded, a clear space of 5 yards will be kept on either side of the mouth of the mine shaft.
(b) On any front where enemy mining exists, or is suspected, detailed schemes of action will be prepared, under the direction of the brigade commander, to deal with any case of a mine being blown within or without our trench line; and specially organized parties will be kept in immediate readiness for prompt occupation of the crater, where this is advisable (as in the case of a crater within or near our trench line), or for dealing with enemy action. All stores required for consolidation will be kept handy at a special dump in instant readiness and made up into man loads. The orders for action, down to the minutest detail, will be incorporated in the defense scheme and made known to every individual who may have to carry them out.
10. RELIEFS.—(a) Reconnaissance.—Prior to taking over a new line of trenches, the commanding officer, adjutant, and company commanders of battalions, and the commanders of M. G. Coys. and trench mortar batteries, will reconnoiter the trenches.
(b) Points to be noted by company commanders.—The following, among others, are points to be specially noted by company commanders before taking over trenches:
(i) Number of men holding line to be taken over and distribution.
(ii) Shelter accommodation.
(iii) Work being done and proposed.