Thursday, December 27, 1973
PRISONS JOIN DRIVE TO SAVE FUEL
A number of economy measures have been interduced by the Prisons
Department, including an earlier "lights out fur prisoners and inmates",
as part of the government's drive to cut back on the use of fuel.
A working party was appointed within the department to achieve
maximum savings without jeopardising security.
Among the measures which have been implemented are a reduction
in the wattage of the cell and dormitory light bulbs; a ban on unauthorised
electrical equipment in any dass er barrack accommodation; all lights in
wells, dormitories, offices and workshops to be turned off when not occupied;
and all machinery to be switched off when not in use.
In addition, all lights required at night have been clearly marked,
and only these are permitted to be switched on. In al. Prisons Department
institutos the "lights out" has been advanced by 30 minutes.
Instructions have also been issued to regulate the supply of fuel
for such things as cooking and bathing. The distribution of fuel to messes
is being limited to minimum daily requirements, and meal hours for staff
have been readjusted wherever possible to minimise consumption of fuel in
staff messed.
In order to keep a check on the situation, each Prisons Department
institute will submit monthly returns to headquarters giving a breakdown of
the various fuels used.
/The Commissioner