Factory Burned in San Jose

Factory Burned in San Jose

The carriage factory of M. Brodel, in the southern part of San Jose, Cal., was on fire recently through spontaneous combustion among some oily waste. The building was 45x137 feet, two stories in height, built of wood and owing to having been standing 40 years, was dry and inflammable. The fire was discovered at 3.30, on the second floor by a truck driver, who gave a still alarm, which was followed almost at once by a wire alarm, some one having pulled the nearest box. On the arrival of the department, under Chief Edward Haley, the building was found to be a mass of flames, and it was evident that it was doomed. Chief Haley directed the energies of the department to saving the surrounding property. The apparatus in use were three steam fire engines, one ladder truck and four combination chemical and hose wagons. Four hydrants—one 3-inch single and one 3-inch double—were available, about 300 feet apart, with a pressure of 42 pounds. Six engine streams were thrown. The value of the building was $20,000 and of the contents, machinery and stock, $18,000.

The carriage factory of M. Brodel, in the southern part of San Jose, Cal., was on fire recently through spontaneous combustion among some oily waste. The building was 45x137 feet, two stories in height, built of wood and owing to having been standing 40 years, was dry and inflammable. The fire was discovered at 3.30, on the second floor by a truck driver, who gave a still alarm, which was followed almost at once by a wire alarm, some one having pulled the nearest box. On the arrival of the department, under Chief Edward Haley, the building was found to be a mass of flames, and it was evident that it was doomed. Chief Haley directed the energies of the department to saving the surrounding property. The apparatus in use were three steam fire engines, one ladder truck and four combination chemical and hose wagons. Four hydrants—one 3-inch single and one 3-inch double—were available, about 300 feet apart, with a pressure of 42 pounds. Six engine streams were thrown. The value of the building was $20,000 and of the contents, machinery and stock, $18,000.