FIRE MENACE GROWS

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 87, Issue 4, 6 January 1943, Page 4

FIRE MENACE GROWS

MUCH DRY UNDERGROWTH BRIGADE ISSUES WARNING A warning against this indiscrnninatiiig burning of rubbish was given last night by the superintendent of the Wanganui Fire Brigade, Mr. N. M. Ross, when commenting on tho large number of grass fires within recent weeks. The fire menace had definitely increased because of the prolonged spell of hot, dry weather, said Mr. Ross, who emphasised that every pex a a within tne city area wishing to burn grass or rubbish must obtain a permit from the brigade. This could be arranged by telephone. “It is contrary to the city by-laws to light a rubbish lire without obtaining a permit, and it is also an offence to burn standing growth,” said Mr. Ross. Growth should be cut and burnt in small heaps, in addition to which every precaution must be taken. Mr. Ross said it was essential that persons burning rubbish should have a garden hose ready for instant use.

Numerous calls to grass fires have been received by the brigade since the start of the summer weather. Scarcely a day goes by without one or more outbreaks occurring. At present undergrowth is so parched and dry that it is highly inflammable. People should be extremely careful, the superintended added, not 'to throw away cigarette ends and lighted matches. A number of fires had been caused by thoughtless actions and in some cases property had been endangered. Mr. Ross referred also to the fire risk caused by growth being cut and allowed to remain in heaps till it was so dry that it constituted a definite menace. People should take immediate steps to burn such rubbish, but it was necessary to obtain a permit and take the precautions outlined. Burning off rubbish in vacant sections covered with dry growth must be avoided.

Two grass fires were dealt with by machines from Central Station yesterday. The first call, at 11.4 a.m., was to the Aramoho Cemetery, where dry growth at the back of the property nad caught alight. The flames were extinguished by a first-aid pump and beaters.

The second call, received in the afternoon, was to a fire at the corner of Taupo Quay Extension and Carlton Avenue. One machine and a trailer Dump were sent to combat the outbreak, the pump being used to boost the pressure from the city water supply. Two deliveries were employed and before the flames were under control a dwelling was in danger.