FIRE PREVENTION WEEK

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXVI, 19 April 1934, Page 11

FIRE PREVENTION WEEK

WHAT TO DO WHEN AN OUTBREAK OCCURS

Despite all precautions that may be taken, fire will occasionally occur, and it is therefore necessary that the public should have in mind what to do in the event of fire.

lHi'St ol all. with regard to those living in town. Delay in calling the fire brigade is frequently the cause of unnecessary fire loss. This is what the firemen refer to as a “Jale call,” and it tho fire has a. good hold when the brigade arrives it is generally difficult to save tile building. The first thing to do when a lire occurs is, therefore, to call the brigade. Every person—even children—should know where the firealarm is situated nearest to the dwelling or business premises, and the method of calling the brigade. On receiving the signal, the brigade goes direct to the place from which the alarm is given, and if the fire is not visible from this point tho person giving the alarm should wait to direct the brigade. Some towns still rely on the telephone for summoning the brigade, and even where alarm-boxes are installed many calls arc given by te.lephone. Every one should know where to find the fire-station number in the telephone directory (it is on a yellow page just inside the cover), and which station to ring if more than one is listed. It is good practice to have this number written up in a prominent place alongside the telephone. It is important to speak slowly and distinctly, and the exact location of the fire—name of street and number—should be given. If there is any chance of mistake the name of the street should be spelt out. Never hestitate about giving alarm because the fire is only a small one The brigade would much sooner turn out and find the fire out when tliev arrive, than risk a “late call” and find the building well alight, After the alarm is given something nfh-y be done to check the fire. First of all, close all windows and doors to eliminate draughts. This is most important, as it helps to confine the fire pending the arrival of the brigade. The electric light and gas should he turned off, as these- help to spread the fire or make] fighting it difficult or dangerous. In at tacking a five try to put water or the contents of afire-extinguisher on the seat of the fire. If it is a. small one it may sometimes the smothered by heavy rugs or woollen materials. Endeavour to confine it by removing anv surrounding curtains or other light materials hko.ly to assist it to spread. If a fire should occur in adjoining or opposite premises, he careful to keep til your doors ami windows closed and stand by with a- few buckets of water ready for use in case the (lame or boat should fire; any part of your premises. With regard to (ires in country districts, there is in this case no fire brigade to rely on, and there is the greater need for taking adequate precautions against fire. Particular care should he taken to see that the e'ectvic installation is in order and that the chimneys are sound. Country householders should think jover the question for themselves and decide how they would act in the event of fire from any of the causes outlined above. Fire-extinguishers or fire-buckets should always lie kept in a convenient place, so that incipient fires can he dealt with, before they get away. If the premises are supplied by tankwater supply, a large tap should be fitted, so that water is- available quickly. It should he realised, however, that most -country fires result in total loss, and that the important tiling to do is to

“put tho fires out before they occur.” The' Nelson Fire Brigade during this week lias arranged for the engine to drive around the town at various hours bearing appropriate lire prevention advice.