REPORT OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF THE FIRE BRIGADE.
There were 31 Fires and 63 Incipient Fires during the year as against 31 and 59 in 1908. Details are given in Table I.
The estimated damage caused by Fires was $548,838.00 and by Incipient Fires $1,497.00 as against $198,219.00 and $1,025.80 in 1908.
The Brigade turned out 47 times during the year.
2. There was a constant supply of water in the fire mains throughout the year.
3. Three Fires occurred in the harbour during the year.
4. There was no prosecution for arson during the year.
5. There are 34 Despatch Boxes kept in different places in Victoria and 12 in Kowloon, 8 different Telephones to which the Police can have access to communicate with Central Station in the event of a fire and 16 Fire Alarms.
6. I enclose a copy of a report by the Engineer on the state of Fire Engines (Annexe A).
7. The conduct of the Brigade has been good.
8. The pumps and other machinery for a new floating fire engine, furnished by Messrs. Merryweather, were received during the year, and the hull constructed locally was nearing completion at the end of the year under review.
F. J. BADELEY,
Superintendent, Fire Brigade,
29th March, 1910.
ANNEXE A.
HONGKONG, 8th March, 1910.
SIR,
I have the honour to forward the Annual Report on the condition of the Government Fire Engines and gear for the year ending 31st December, 1909.
1. Steamer No. 1.
FLOATING FIRE ENGINE BY SHAND, MASON & Co.
This vessel has been used at Fires and Drills during the year. The Hull, Machinery and Boiler are all in good order and fit for service at Fires in the Harbour or on the lower levels on shore.
Steamer No. 2.
LAND ENGINE BY SHAND, MASON & Co.
This Engine has been regularly used at Fires and Drills for Drivers. The Machinery and Boiler were overhauled in December and are in good working order.