HAYSTACK SAVED FROM FIRE.

Putaruru Press, Volume XI, Issue 511, 2 March 1933, Page 7

HAYSTACK SAVED FROM FIRE.

BY BAND OF SETTLERS. A good save from fire was made by a willing band of settlers on the farm of Mr. W. Coker, of Tauhei, 10 miles from Morrinsville, recently, when it was discovered that a large haystack, estimated to contain fifty tons, was on the point of bursting into flames. A cut five feet wide was made practically through the centre of the stack; then another cut, six feet wide and about eight feet deep, was made off each side to cut out the seat of the fire. It was only by continually pouring water on the part being removed that the balance of the stack was saved, and even then the heat, combined with the fumes and smoke, was a source of danger, and it was only possible to work for a few minutes without getting out for fresh air. After 10 hours strenuous fighting the victory was with the settlers. The hay that was removed from the stack and thrown out in the paddock burst into flames, which added to the anxiety of the men, but as it was well away from the main stack and a plentiful supply of water was handy the fire was confined and although it burned for two days it was not allowed to reach the main stack. Although about onethird of the stack was thrown away, the balance was pressed and yielded 38 tons.