In recognition of the bravery displayed in rescue operations by officers and men of the Department, the following awards were subsequently made by Her Majesty the Queen:
One George Medal, and
Two Colonial Police Medals for Gallantry.
11th April, 1960--Floating Squatter Fire In Tai Kok Tsui
At 1051 hours on 11th April, 1960 a call was received to a fire in the stilted squatter area in Cherry Street near Oak Street, Tai Kok Tsui, Kowloon. The fire fanned by a strong wind from the north west, spread to buildings ashore and more squatter huts and timber on the mud banks. To the north east of the praya the tremendous upsurge of hot air caused a fire storm, a vortex at ground level into which fresh air was sucked from across the surface of the open water, to develop. It was imperative to kill this cycle before it produced a fire, the control of which would have been beyond the resources of the equipment available. It was not until 1230 hours when 40 tons of water a minute pumped from fire boats and land appliances had been brought to bear at the vortex that this phenomenon was arrested, and the fire thereafter gradually extinguished.
During these operations 216 stilted wooden structures used as dwellings and timber stores, occupying an area of foreshore of about 400 by 300 feet were burnt down. In addition, 19 single and two storey brick and wooden factory type buildings occupy- ing an area of 300 by 100 feet were severely damaged by fire. Large areas adjoining the scene of the fire were also affected by sparks and burning embers carried by the strong wind.
This fire caused one death and 14 serious injuries. A number of firemen were also slightly injured at the scene.
20th August, 1960-Fire on BOARD S.S. 'Hong Kong Fir' at Taikoo
Dock
Fire Services Department was called to an outbreak of fire on board the S.S. 'Hong Kong Fir which was berthed at Taikoo Dock Hong Kong at 0146 hours on 20th August, 1960. The fire started in the Engine Room and because of the oil fuel which was nearby, spread with remarkable rapidity. The first and most important task was to rescue the men trapped in the Engine Room. Because of flames, heat and smoke, it was impossible to rescue the trapped men immediately. Steps were therefore taken
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