INCUBATOR FIRES.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVIII, Issue 21049, 7 December 1931, Page 13

INCUBATOR FIRES.

Sir, —I notice that another poultrykeeper has suffered loss through tho exploding of tho oil container attached to tho incubator. Having been chicken rearer in charge of fourteen oil incubators at Home, I know what the loss of a hatch means, and would like to suggest possible causes ot such an accident. Three present themselves to me. (1) If the container is completely filled, an explosion can occur. At least half an inch space should be allowed. (2) If the container was not wiped after filling, and kerosene had been spilled on it. (3) The container needs to be made of strong m.etal, and well soldered. Some that I have seen are much too thin for my liking. There are two other causes of fire with oilheated machines apart from the exploding of the container, but which may ultimately cause it to explode. One is the flue, which can cause mischief if it has not been thoroughly swept before starting tho new season's work. Tho second is the capsule. If this is faulty it will collapse on to the top of the chimney, and the smoko from the flame being in contact with the capsule will form soot that will fall on tho flame and start a fire. None of these may have been the cause of the recent loss, but I suggest them as the cause of many a poultry farm tragedy. Homai. Isabel A. Loftus.