DANGER OF FIRE

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVII, Issue 23593, 29 February 1940, Page 10

DANGER OF FIRE

GROWTH ON WASTE LAND OTHER RISKS IN CITY COUNCIL TO FRAME BY-LAW There is considerable fire hazard in Auckland from such causes as the unrestrained growth of gorse, grass, blackberry and other noxious weeds on unoccupied land, but, unfortunately, the Auckland Metropolitan Fire Board has not the power to take action toward abating the nuisance, according to a report by the superintendent of the board, Mr. W. L. Wilson, which was forwarded by the board to the City Council last night. It was suggested that the council, in common with other local bodies in the metropolitan area, should enact a suitable by-law that would have effect over the area. In his report Mr. Wilson said the limitations of the local by-laws were not confined to the hazard of growth on open spaces, but were inadequate to cover other and more serious risks, embracing such things as storage of timber, removal of packing crates and packed and unpacked gooefs, stored in such manner as to create a substantial risk. These dangers, including loose conditions generally in business, shop and factory premises, were very real, but could be to a large extent minimised were local by-laws reconstructed so as to vest in the brigade adquate powers to deal with the prevention of danger from fire.

The council agreed that a by-law such as suggested should be made and it will recommend the Fire Board to urge other local bodies to act similarly.