MASTERTON FIRE BOARD.

Wairarapa Daily Times, 29 June 1928, Page 4

MASTERTON FIRE BOARD.

QUARTERLY MEETING. The quarterly meeting of the Masterton Fire Board was held this morning. Mr W. Candy (chairman) presided, and there were also present: Messrs W. A. Barton and J. Wesney (insurance companies) and J. B. Rue (Borough Council). An apology was received from Mr T. Jenkins. A quantity of routine business was dealt with. SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT. The superintendent (Mr A. E. Freeman) submitted his quarterly report for the period ending June 30th, as follows: Calls.—During the quarter your brigade received only four calls, one being for a chimney fire and three for actual fireu, but all were of an incipient nature. The total fire loss only amounted to £45, while the insurance on same was £2200, and the value amounted to £3750. A very satisfactory quarter. Brigade.-—The brigade held ten musters, all being well attended, and the interest is well maintained.

Inspector 'Hugo. —On April 27th an official inspection of the brigade and plant was made by Inspector T. T. Hugo. I regret the small attendance then, owing to the night (Friday) not being a suitable one. Unfortunately,

it could not lie altered on this occasion, i\s was explained by Captain Huo. Resignation. —i regret to report the resignation of Fireman E. Jenkins, who completes his 29th year of continuous service. For several years he was deputy-superintendent. Mr Jenkins l as been one of the most loyal members this brigade has ever had. Fire Hazard. —Several fires have been traced to gas fires through the use of ‘‘ Compo ’ ’ pipe. I consider this piping should be prohibited from any further use. The fire at Mr Harrison’s, in Walton Avenue, was direct evidence that the fire started from the above cause. Fortunately, very little damage was done.

New Plant. —To reduce the water damage at fires I would recommend the purchase of a controlling nozzle for use on the Commerce engine as a first aid unit by which a quarter-inch jet can be used and extended to a larger size if the fire is getting out of hand. The Hallcy-Simonis is the best kind I know of, and the price of branch and nozzle complete is £l2; nozzle only to fit our present branches, £7. I would further recommend the purchase of a Pyro-foam Extinguisher —an improvement on our present chemical extinguishers for benzine fires.

- it was decided that the Board present Fireman E. Jenkins with an honorary life membership medal, and that a letter be forwarded to him expressing the Board’s appreciation of his lengthy lire service. The Board decided to purchase the new plant suggested by the Superintendent.