SAFETY IN FIRE-FIGHTING.

Horowhenua Chronicle, 23 September 1937, Page 4

SAFETY IN FIRE-FIGHTING.

SMOKE HELMETS ISSUED TO BRIGADE. LEVIN PURE BOARD’S PURCHASE. In the course of an inspection of a muster at the Levin Volunteer Fire Brigade prior to the usual quarterly meeting of the Levin Fire Board last evening, four smoke helmets which have been purchased by the board were handed over for the use of the brigade after their operation and application had been explained by the brigade superintendent, Mr. R. H. Johnson. The helmets have been secured by the board through the Department of Internal Affairs, and are expected to be of considerable assistance to members of the brigade in entering smoke-lilled buildings. They are for the use of the two ‘ ‘ branchmen ” who take control of the leads of hose in case of fire. They are of the same pattern as that approved for the use of'lire brigades in England, and are of the type being recommended by the Department of Internal Affairs in 2STew Zealand. Each helmet consists of a knapsack to fit the chest of the wearer, carrying the air purifying canister, and a rubber lined face mask held in position by elastic bands. The equipment is of such a nature that it may be donned quickly and easily, and does not interfere in any way with the movements of the rvearer. The helmets are expected to be of inestimable advantage in safeguarding. the health of brigadesmen as well as greatly facilitating the suppression of fire outbreaks. > v In future cases of lire, the member of the Levin Brigade carrying hose into buildings wll always be required lo wear the equipment.