FIRES.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 16888, 28 December 1916, Page 7

FIRES.

(Peji United Press Association.) AUCKLAND, December 27. In connection with the fire which occurred on the morning of Dccomber 24 in Smeeton's shop, Queen street, when extensive d,imago wae done, tho insurances totalled £44,500, tho risk on tlio stock being £24,500. The latter amount was distributed over 10 companies, whilo tho £20,000 on the buildings was distributed over three companies. The ironmongery establishment of Messrs Laidlaw and Gray, in Cnrgill road, was discovered to be on firo about 3 o'clock yesterdav morning. The City Brigade arrived a few minutes after the South Dunedin Brigade, which effected a good save by a smart effort. The outbreak originated through some burning rubbish on the outsido of the building eating its way through the wooden door. The flames spread to the shelves and walls, but very little damage was done, tho flames being extinguished before they obtained a firm hold of the building. The firm's stock is insured for between £500 and £iOO with the Guardian office, and it is estimated that the damage to the stock and fitt.ing.s through fire will amount to about £15. No damage whatever was done by water. T'he premises are owned by Mr J. M'Donald, of St. Clair, and are inmred for £1000. A fire broke out about 10 o'clock on Sunday night in the cheese factory at Takamatua {German Bay), near Akaroa. and, aided by a strong south-easterly breeze, resulted in the complete destruction of the building, in spite of the strenuous efforts of a band of willincr workers. The bulk of tho cheese in stock, nearly 14 tons, was removed. The manager's house had a narrow escape. It is believed that the fire started in the engine room. The insurances, all in the State office, are as follow:— Stock and boiler. £10CK): f;ieto*-v building. •C 350. utensils, £375. The chairman of directors estimates the loss at £1000 aliovo tho insurance.