EMERGENCY FIRE SERVICE

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 77, 10 August 1942, Page 4

EMERGENCY FIRE SERVICE

EFFICIENT AUXILIARY UNIT The Nelson Emergency Fire Service has now been in operation for nearly three years, and has developed into a first class auxiliary unit to the Fire Brigade for use in times of emergency. The unit, which comprises almost GO members, has held regular evening pnraies at least once a week and Saturday afternoon parades every third week. The result of this practice may be seen in the various types of fire brigade drill that the men carry out and at the present time the unit is ready to meet any emergency that may come along. Apart from standard drills, several courses have been given in first aid. and artificial respiration, both of which proved very interesting. Quite an appreciable amount of training has been carried out with the trailer pump provided by ihe Government. and another of these pumps is expected at an early date. This particular type of trailer pump is most efficient and is capabie of pumping water at a very high rate. Several trials have been given of pumping water from the Maitai. vrjth highly satisfactory results. During the next three weeks, the usual parade of all sections will be held each Monday night when a thorough inspection of all alleyways and back entrances to business premises will be made. This is being done with a view to the men making themselves familiar with the rear portions of these premises so as to have a thorough knowledge of them if required during a time of emergency. The nearest fire plugs will also be memorised.