DANGER OF FIRE

Dominion, Volume 28, Issue 84, 3 January 1935, Page 9

DANGER OF FIRE

Handling of Motor Spirit

BRIGADE ISSUES WARNING

“The risks attendant on the handling and use of benzine or motor spirits have probably been more discussed than almost any other cognate subject,” states the annual review of the Wellington Eire Brigade’s operations during 1034, in referring to the only fatal tire of the year, which was the result of the ignition of benzine vapour. These risks the review classifies as follows:

1. Tile volatility of the spirit. 2. The relatively small percentage of vapour necessary to form an explosive mixture with air. 3. The readiness with which the vapour can he ignited by a spark or flame. 4. The heavy density of the vapour enabling it to travel or flow considerable distances without mingling with the air and thus form eventually an ignitable mixture at some distance from the original source of the liquid. “Motor spirits vapour has been known to Ignite at a distance of 40 feet from the source of the liquid and it will, therefore, be readily recognised and should be appreciated that the unrestricted handling and use of motor spirits is extremely dangerous and often a costly experience.” the article adds. ___