Fire_Services_1962-1963 — Page 35

done more sterling work during the year, and in three known instances prevented fires or explosions which would have had disastrous con- sequences.

INVESTIGATION OF FIRES

108. The Fire Prevention Bureau performed some especially good work in determining the causes of 1,775 fires which occurred in build- ings. Whilst many have had to be recorded officially as unknown, sufficient evidence was obtained in every instance to provide further material for fire prevention educational purposes.

PUBLICITY

109. With invaluable assistance from the press, radio, Rediffusion, Kaifongs and a number of other organizations, the Service launched in the period October - December the greatest anti-fire campaign in its history.

Schools

110. Having regard to the number of fires started by children a Poster Competition was organized. Encouraged by officers of the Educa- tion Department and teachers, children submitted 1.592 posters for judging, and 102 prizes provided by the Service and the Chinese Manufacturers Association were awarded.

Factories and Commercial Houses

111. The need for greater vigilance in producing and distribution agencies was emphasized by the circulation of more than a hundred thousand leaflets, and thousands of letters, brochures and Fire Preven- tion Notices.

Displays and Demonstrations

112. A Fire Prevention Display lasting 6 weeks was held at the Chinese Manufacturers Association Exhibition, and demonstrations and displays took place on playgrounds and school premises throughout the Colony.

Press and Radio

113. The press, radio and Rediffusion gave up valuable space and time daily to slogans to keep before the public the need for increased vigilance during the dry season.

114. In spite of the painstaking work of the Fire Prevention Bureau in educating the public to understand that carelessness alone is respon-

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