Minor Topics.
SPEAKING of private appliances for fire protection in large manufacturing establishments, the Hartford Insurance Journal says: “It is a serious question whether any allowance should be made for such appliances when their use is confided to inexperienced hands, and whether a few buckets of water, conveniently placed in a mill or manufactory, or dwelling, are not worth all the patent appliances ever invented. Anybody can tip over a bucket of water, no matter how excited he may be ; very few can use a patent extinguisher, even if it is in order.” Fire apparatus in any building takes the same risk of destruction by fire that the other contents of the building do, and no appliance is of any value unless operated by trained men. An efficient public Fire Department, with trained men to handle the most approved apparatus, is te best fire protection that can be found. In their hands the patent extinguishers alluded to become of value, as has been demonstrated time and again. Hundreds of fires are put out in their incipiency annually by the Fire Patrols of the country, by means of chemical extinguishers, that the public never hears anything about.
ON the 18th of December a terrible fire occurred in Honolulu, Hawaiian Islands, by which property valued at $258,700 was destroyed. The insurance was $63,100, leaving a clean loss to property owners of $195,600. The Honolulu Advertiser's extra account of the fire says: “His Majesty the King was early on the ground, and, with the household troops, remained throughout the night, working efficiently on the brakes and otherwise.” Honolulu has three hand engine companies, one hook and ladder company, and one hose company, all volunteers. The force is commanded by a chief and two assistants. King Kalakaua takes great pride in his fire companies, and not unfrequently turns out with them.
If you are a current subscriber,login hereto access this content.
If you would like to become a subscriber, please visit ushere.
