Fire_Brigade_1953-1954 — Page 11

Resettlement Squads, the squatters have become more fire- minded and on many occasions an outbreak of fire has been checked in its incipient stage, with the result that the damage has been kept to the minimum,

STAFF

12. The total overall strength of the Brigade was increased during the year by the addition of a number of floating staff to man the new Fire Boat "Alexander Grantham" and by the transfer of ambulance personnel from the Medical Department, on the unification of the Government Ambulance Service under my charge. The approved establishment of the Brigade on 31st March, 1954 was 543 officers and other ranks.

13. The Brigade has finally managed to recruit sufficient candidates from the United Kindom to fill the long outstanding vacancies for expatriate officers. Local recruitment continued to be satisfactory and practically full strength was maintained.

APPLIANCES AND EQUIPMENT

14. All fire appliances and equipment were regularly tested, overhauled and maintained in efficient and good working order by the mechanical staff of the Brigade.

15. The "Onslow" fire engine ordered from Messrs. Dennis Brothers, England, was received and placed in commission. This appliance, although small is fitted with a 500-gallon per minute fire pump and a 30-gallon 1st aid water tank and carries a double extension ladder as well as other ancillary fire fighting equipment. It

It is especially designed with remarkable manoeuvring ability which makes it ideal for the bends and narrow roads of the Island of Hong Kong.

16. The radio telephone net-work, consisting of 2 fixed main stations, 6 mobile units and 8 pack sets, was put into commission during the year. The system has proved to be of great advantage when working at large fires, squatter area fires etc., where communication by other means is difficult.

5