DISASTROUS FIRE.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 17156, 8 November 1917, Page 6

DISASTROUS FIRE.

OUTBREAK IU EDMOND'S PREMISES. BUILDING APPARENTLY DOOMED. One of the most serious outbreaks of fire that lias occurred in the city for many years was discovered in Mr John Edmonds •warehouse shortly after 2 o'clock this morning. Constable Amies and Sergeant Reid wcro near the place at 2.15, and there was then no sign of iiro. About five minutes later, however. Constable O'Oonnoll noticed smoke issuing from the premises, and ho gave the alarm. Tho brigade arrived promptly on the scene, and lost no time in forcing an entrance to tho building from both Princes street and Bond street. Dense volumes of smoke woro issuing from -windows and doors, and as this was permeated by heavy fumes, tho task of the firemen in locating tho fixo was a difficult one. About 2.45 the building burst into flame, tho rear portion being quickly enveloped. From this point on tho fire made rapid progress, and in an incredibly short space of time the structure -was ablaze practically from end to end, the flume leaping to a great height. A good supply of water was available, but for some time this appeared to have little effect in checking tho ravages of tho fire. It is understood that the firm carried stocks of oils, etc., which were no doubt largely responsible fqr the rapid spread and fierceness of the flames. It is also stated that a quantity of ammunition was stored in the building. At 3 o'clock tho flames, which were leaping high in the air and lighting up tho whole neighbourhood, had such a hold that Messrs Edmond's promises were practically gutted, and the neighbouring buildings—those of Messrs A. Moritzson and Co., M'Kcnzic and Co. (in Bond street), and tho Public Trust and the Grand Theatre were being seriously threatened.