The Press WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 1947. Dunstable House Fire

Press, Volume LXXXIII, Issue 25345, 19 November 1947, Page 6

The Press WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 1947. Dunstable House Fire

The public of Christchurch was shocked yesterday as early and uncertain reports of casualties in the fire that swept Dunstable House were confirmed, and exceeded, in a still incomplete count of the dead. As we write, the known total is 29; and at least 20 more are missing. Most of these, it seems probable, after checking staff lists, were members of the staff, including some senior officers; there may have been others. A complete and accurate roll of the dead will bring the sympathy of the public specifically to their families. Meanwhile, the public knows that a grievous disaster has befallen the community, is saddened by the sudden wide stroke of death, and is stirred by pity for those, known and unknown, who are bereaved by it. The people of Christchurch will feel, also, a warm sympathy with the directors and management of Messrs. J. Ballantyne and Co., whose long history and high reputation have made Dunstable House as much an institution as a business. It is a history, it will be hoped, that will speedily renew itself.

For the Christchurch Fire Brigade and suburban brigades, assisted by civilians, the police, and members of the armed forces, and for the hospital and ambulance services which were called upon, no praise can be too high. To say that the brigades were able to confine within the one group of buildings a fire that for some time seemed uncontrollable is to say the least that they deserve. It was a first-class achievement, not to be won witaout firstclass skill and unremitting effort. There will, of course, be an inquiry into the origin and cause of the fire. It need hardly be said that the public will await its results anxiously; for if anything can be done to reduce risks which were so appallingly demonstrated yesterday, the public will expect it to be done.