EXPLOSION IN HALL

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXI, Issue 21757, 23 March 1934, Page 8

EXPLOSION IN HALL

BENZINE TANK ACCIDENT YOUTH GRAVELY INJURED SOME NARROW ESCAPES [bt telegraph—OWN correspondent] DARGAVILLE, Thursday A serious accident happened to Herbert Watkins, the 19-year-old son of Mr. F. Watkins, of Ruawai, while he was attending a wrestling practice in the Whenuanui Hall, and he now lies in the Te Kopuru Hospital in a critical condition. During the practice it was fonnd that the benzine lighting system was not functioning properly. Thereupon young Watkins made an investigation.. Ho considered there was a blockage in the pipes, and proceeded to pump more air, when, without the least warning, the pump blew up, and-'a piece struck him on the head. Rendered unconscious by the blow, his companions saw at once that he was seriously hurt, and had him taken to the hospital, some 25 miles distant. A medical examination revealed that the injured youth was suffering from a fractured skull and his condition is considered to be very grave. Other young men in the vicinity of the exploding tank had narrow escapes, and none was injured. Fortunately all present, kept their presence of mind, and did not. Strike matches, otherwise there would have been a serious fire, as benzine was spilled all over the room in which the lighting plant was • installed. IGNITION OP BENZINE CAR SLIGHTLY DAMAGED A touring car caught fire in Point Chevalier Road last evening owing to a mishap with a lighted match and benzine. However, quick action by the District Fire Brigade averted any serious damage. The vehicle, which was parked only 100 yards from tihe fire station, was being supplied with benzine from a tin by the driver, Mi*. R. Jenkins, of 2 Castle Street, Grey Lynn, who was accompanied by a passenger. When seme of the spirit spilled on the road, a match was struck to assist investigation, and the benzine ignited. The mishap was witnessed by a fireman standing in the doorway of the station and an engine was quickly on the scene. The outbreak was easily extinguished* with chemicals. The only damage caused was to the wiring of the motor-car's engine.