E.P.S. GUIDE

Press, Volume LXXVIII, Issue 23625, 30 April 1942, Page 4

E.P.S. GUIDE

AN OFFICIAL SERIES (13) WATER, GAS , ETC. During a raid the water supply and drainage system may be damaged. The water-heating system in the house holds a useful reserve of water; but it is wise to keep a day’s .supply of fresh drinking water ready. The artesian wells on many Christchurch properties will be useful: locate the nearest. Rain water can be collected from the roof by the spouting. Throughout an emergency, boil ail drinking water. Use the city water sparingly. Some mains may be broken, and the supply for fire-fighting run short or fail. Lessen Fire Risks At an Alarm, or if you leave your home, turn off the gas at the meter to reduce the risk of fire. Put out all domestic fires. Do not use electrical appliances with exposed elements: radiators, for example. If you leave home, turn off the electricity at the main switch. Treat all fallen wires as dangerous. Report them to the warden. Drainage and Water If the drains are blocked, the water closet must be closed and not used. Waste water should not be run into the drains but into trenches in the garden. The water closet must not be used, also, if the water supply fails. An oil drum or some similar container should be used instead: but fit it with a fly-proof cover. Bury nightsoil and household rubbish in trenches, one spade deep. Health Precautions If the sanitary services are out of action, sickness and disease will be more likely to spread. Take every care. Above all, prevent food from being contaminated. Keep flies away from it. Wash dishes at once and keep them covered. Wash your hands frequently, and always before preparing or eating food. Boil this washing water, if possible, or dissolve a little Condy’s crystals in it.