Heated by electricity and supplied with water from an artesian well, the camp was quite comfortable by the standard of the day.  While the local power company, Seaboard Electric supplied power, diesel electric generators could be activated in the case of a failure.  Along with the civilian telephone system, an extensive communications network connected the fort to other elements of the harbour defenses.  In the event of fire, a small brook that ran behind the barracks area was dammed to provide water for the emergency.

Food and supplies were received from the Regimental Depot in Sydney.  Some items however, were purchased locally.  Because of shortages and rationing, meat for the fort was often "acquired" by means of hunting in the woods behind the barracks area.  Stored by a local merchant, these extra rations could be issued as needed.

Although the permanent component troops posted around the harbour numbered just over 3000, Fort Petrie alone could call on 1000 men in auxiliary squadrons with a portion of these actually stationed at the fort.  If an accident should occur, a fort orderly was on hand and a dental officer made periodic visits.

For entertainment in the off hours, a soldier could read, play cards (usually cribbage or 45's), or write home.  On weekends, movies were shown in the rec hall and, on occasion, dances were held.  The men could also travel to Sydney or New Waterford in search of diversion.  If an altercation occurred on such a visit however, a young soldier might find himself assigned to a menial task or confined to quarters.  In the case of a more serious charge, the offender would serve his sentence at the military detention centre at Ft.  Edward.

On the subject of small arms, it is of some interest to note that for the first part of the Second World War many troops posted to coastal defense were issued the notorious Ross rifle of the Great War.  This was done as a stop gap measure until the more reliable Lee-Enfield 303 was available in greater quantities.  The Smith & Wesson 38 cal.  Pistol was issued to Warrant Officers and commissioned Officers.  In case of attack, Ft.  Petrie was equipped with two Bren Light machine guns as well as two Vickers heavy machine guns.