ANXIOUS TIME ON RENOWN

Taranaki Daily News, 1 June 1927, Page 7

ANXIOUS TIME ON RENOWN

SERIOUS FIRE OUTBREAK FIGHT FOR TWELVE HOURS DUKE OFFERS ASSISTANCE By Telegraph—Press Assn.—Copyright. Received May 31, 7.30 p.m. Sydney, May 31. A wireless message from the Renown states that appreciable danger was threatened to the Renown and the Royal passengers on the afternoon of May 26 as the result of a serious, fire in one of the boiler rooms continuing for nearly twelve hours. Splendid bravery was displayed by the engineers, officers and men, who repeatedly entered the inferno of flames, steam and oil fumes in their efforts to prevent the spread of the conflagration. Captain Sullivan subsequently issued the following statement regarding the outbreak:—“Au oil fuel fire occurred in one of the six boiler rooms. Such fires are provided against in all oil-fired ships, but there was naturally some anxiety until steps were taken to prevent its spreading. In this case there was considerable difficulty, as the fire was located in the least accessible part of the boiler room, but the ship’s organisation was equal to the task. “As an extra precaution the ship was stopped to reduce the draught of air. The damage to the electric lighting is affected and the room considerably damaged, but the boiler is intact and the steaming capabilities are not affected. Four men suffered slight burns and gassing.

“The Duke of York descended to close proximity to the fire and offered his services, but little could be done except by the engineers.”