XN000022-1973-08-30 — Page 3

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Thursday, August 30, 1973

All propelling machinery and pumps will be controlled from the

wheel house which will contain radar, echo (depth) sounder and radio

(V.H.F.) equipment. Washing, messing and rest room facilities will be

provided for half of the estimated 16 personnel on board during emergency

operations.

Estimated to cost $1.5 million, the building work of the launch

will be open to international tender.

At present the Oil Pollution Unit maintains 500 feet of oil booms

to contain oil spillages and to protect such vital areas as typhoon

shelters, beaches and waterfronts. A further 1,600 feet of lightweight

oil booms can be obtained from local oil companies whenever necessary.

It also keeps a stock of 10,000 gallons of chemical dispersant,

and another 2,000 gallons can be purchased immediately on demand plus

a further 300 to 500 gallons daily.

In addition to these facilities, the Fire Services Department

maintains three fire boats which are equipped to deal with oil spillages

and fully manned on a 24-hour basis.

The Royal Hong Kong Auxiliary Air Force helicopters are also

available for reconnaisance purposes.

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