Don't Start It!

Fire prevention week, September 22 to 27, was emphasised by a display of fire causes at the Fire Station, and on the evening of the 22nd a public demonstration of fire fighting methods was given.

Demonstrating the use of a hook ladder on the tower at the back of the station are Fireman Tim Martin (bottom) and Station Officer Tom Walsh.

Descending a 45-foot Magirus ladder is Fireman Bill McLachlan. Assisting him are, from left, Fireman Tim Martin, Station Officer Tom Walsh, and Fireman Brian Bound.

Using a 35-foot Ajax ladder to reach the "blaze" are, from the top, Firemen Murray Willson, Graeme Barrington, and Doug McArthur.

Fireman Graeme Barrington described various breathing apparatus used by the brigade.

Fireman Doug McArthur wearing a Normalair which uses straight air, and Fireman Chris Moore wearing a Proto, two-hour oxygen set.

After rescuing patient from a "smoke filled" building firemen prepare to administer oxygen. They are, from left, Chief Fire Officer Ernie Smith, Senior Fireman Ron Anderson, Fireman Earl Tucker, Station Officer Murray McIntosh (carrying patient), and Jennifer Goodwin.

The oxygen being administered.

Jock Carruthers and Ron Good from the Airport Fire Service demonstrate the use of the Partner metal saw which was used to free the person in a recent accident in Gladstone Road. (See page 29).

Jock Carruthers and Ron Good put out a deliberate blase with foam from one of the Airport's fire tender.

In the display at the Fire Station, where all goods were provided by Adair s, Robert Holt's and Smith and Brown, a great number of fire causes were shown. If you say "impossible" you'd be wrong as some people have been silly enough to run four appliances off one point. The result is predictable. Fireman-driver Murray Willson shows how some people operate.

Fireman Bill Dean shows a toaster which actually had a knife stuck down it trying to get out toast. A fire was the result. A kerosene heater left in a draught, a boiled dry kettle and unattended heaters were other actual causes on display.

Heaters too close to drapes and appliances left on stoves (right) are other easy ways to start a fire.

Station Officer Kevin McIntosh points out the danger of having a mirror over a fire-place. Women in long frocks who "touch-up" before a mirror in this set-up are liable to have their dresses dragged into the fire by the draught. Not much good for the legs for a start!

"Smoke in bed! Wake up Dead!"

Misuse of electric blankets can also cause fire".

Loose matches within reach of children and small shallow ashtrays are also hazards

Just as it says

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The Gisborne Photo News

No 184 : October 8, 1969

Don't Start It!