COUP STORAGE ON FIRE.

Clutha Leader, Volume XXXVIII, Issue 22, 19 September 1911, Page 3

COUP STORAGE ON FIRE.

OVERCOME BY FUMES

Twelve firemen were overcome on August 1 by fumes while engaged in extinguishing a fire which broke out at the premises of the Union Gold Storage Company at Red Bull Wharf, Upper lliajriej Sjtrefct, London. Superintendent Smith was in a serious condition, and Dr Spon, of Southwark Bridge Road, attended to him for about an hour, and said he thought the man was suffering from severe cold—through refrigeration. The superintendent was conveyed home in a motor car. The fire broke out shortly before nine o'clock at night. As the firemen dashed into the burning building they were met by choking ammonia fumes mingled with the smoke and smell of burning eggs and provisions. Man after man was overcome and staggered out into the fresh air for medical attention by the brigade medical officer, Dr Spon. Many gallantly resumed their efforts and smoke-helmets were called into use. I Practically every man who arrived during the first half-hour was overcome.

For three hours the firemen and salvage men, under Lieutenant Sladen, Mr Gamble, and Colonel Fox, fought the flames. Every now and again a .motor car was called up and firemen bearing senseless comrades on their shoulders staggered out and placed them in the cars.

Just before half-past eleven four men were borne out in quick succession, all being unconscious.

The fire was attacked from the front by "steamers,' and from the river side by boats from the river stations. It was midnight before the fire was finally overcome. Its cause remains unknown. A slight fire had broken out the previous day at adjoining premises occupied by the same company.