despatched fire appliances and a number of ambulances. Six persons were rescued by villagers before the arrival of the Fire Brigade and three other persons were reported missing. Two women were buried from the waist down- wards under masonry, wet earth and reinforced concrete. One was extricated after extensive and very strenuous operations. She died shortly after admission to Kowloon Hospital. The other was certified dead by a medical officer summoned to the scene. A female infant was also rescued but was certified dead on arrival at Kowloon Hospital.
Kowloon Riots
1
(6) During the riots which broke out on 10th October, 1956 at Li Cheng Uk Resettlement Estate, Shamshuipo, Kow- loon, and extended to other parts of Kowloon and Tsuen Wan, New Territories, many calls to fires were received. The Kowloon Division of the Fire Brigade, with a section of the Auxiliary Fire Service, took part in the operations and shouldered a major share of the dangers and hazards caused by the disturbances. The Fire Brigade, in spite of the continual stoning, responded to all calls received. Two fire appliances were
were damaged beyond repair. Members of the Brigade displayed magnificient courage and devotion to duty in spite of fatigue and lack of rest, and operations were carried out under continual attacks by the rioters throwing stones and bottles. A number of firemen sustained injuries through vicious attacks made on them by the rioters whilst they were attempting to carry out their duties under difficult and dangerous conditions.
FALSE ALARMS
7. The number of false alarms was comparatively low and 22 out of 35 were given with good intent. Action was always taken by the Police in attempting to apprehend the culprits who originated malicious false alarms.
CAUSES OF FIRES
8. Careless handling and negligent use of inflammable liquids were still by far the most common causes of fires. Children playing with matches and the indiscriminate discarding of
7
Page 15Page 16
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.