TOWNSHIP IN DANGER.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXV, Issue 19858, 31 January 1928, Page 10

TOWNSHIP IN DANGER.

MURCHISON SCRUB FIRE. RESIDENTS FIGHT FLAMES. ALL NIGHT WATCH TO BE KEPT. [BY TELEGRAPH. —PRESS ASSOCIATION.] WELLINGTON, Monday. The township of Mnrchison was in great danger this morning as the result of an outbreak of fire in the Domain Reserve in tho vicinity of several houses, and also the Young Men's Institute and the local school. The outbreak was caused by a small fire lighted by a man living near tho back of tho Domain. Getting out of control and fanned by a light wind the (lames took a quick hold with a wide faco running in two directions. It looked as if nothing could stay tho progress of tho fire and all buildings in tho vicinity were in immediate danger. Volunteer workers rushed to tho scene and, with only wet sacks and a few buckets of water, attacked the flames. Tho dry grass, fern and blackberries wore up to 6ft. high in places and the heat was tenillic. Where possible, firebreaks were made, and after an hour's herculean effort the fire was gut under control. Tho whole township being as dry as tinder, it was only a miracle that a save was effected. Great praise is clue to the members of the volunteer firo brigade. In the afternoon more safety breaks were made. Burning stumps were a continued menaco and an all-night watch will be kept. A much stronger wind gpiang up later in the day and it was deemed fortunate that the lire was then under control, otherwise nothing could have saved the town. Altogether some live acres of ground were swept.