Fire_Brigade_1954-1955 — Page 12

FIRE RISKS

12. Fire risk is being gradually reduced in the Colony due to the accommodation of squatters in the newly constructed Resettlement Areas. Constant lectures and talks continue to be given by officers of the Brigade to residents in the remaining squatter areas, with the result that squatters are becoming more conscious of the danger of fire and very often the outbreaks of fires have been checked at the outset, thus keeping the damage down to a minimum.

STAFF

13. The total overall strength of the Brigade was increased during the year by the addition of 6 officers and 14 other ranks. The approved establishment of the Brigade on 31st March, 1955 was 563 officers and other ranks.

14. The establishment of expatriate officers was up to full strength but local recruitment was not up to the standard expected, especially in the case of firemen. Although every recruitment parade was well attended, the type of recruit fell short of the Fire Brigade standard.

APPLIANCES AND EQUIPMENT

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

16. 2 Land Rover fire appliances were received and placed in commission, one at Tai Po and the other at Yuen Long.

17. During the year 4 additional Land Rover fire appliances were ordered to give better fire protection to the New Terri- tories. One 100 ft. all-steel Morris-Magirus Turntable Ladder fire escape and pump appliance was ordered as a replacement for an unserviceable Turntable appliance. Deliveries of these appliances are expected in the near future.

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