A MATTER OF SAFETY.

Auckland Star, Volume LVII, Issue 134, 8 June 1926, Page 15

A MATTER OF SAFETY.

iTo tiie Editor.)

Sir, —Will you permit mc to call attention to a matter that should be remedied? I refer to the habit of some bus drivers of smoking while on duty. It is not an uncommon thing for a driver to light a cigarette while driving and to take one or both hands off the wheel in order to do so, perhaps steadyinf the wheel with his knee or elbow. We know from sad experience what may happen to a bus when the wheel is insecurely held, and why should risk be taken merely to gratify a selfish indulgence on the driver's part? Recently a bus tank was refilled at a service station en route to the suburbs. The petrol overflowed, and the fumes rilled the bus as the tank was inside. Presently the bus was started off again, and, although benzine fumes were still in evidence to the passengers, the driver lighted a cigarette, taking both hands off the wheel to do so. Although in this case no accident occurred, such utter disregard for the passengers' safety and comfort should be made impossible. I am, etc., . F.M.B.