Fire_Services_1964-1965 — Page 29

LANDSLIDE

114. A little after midnight on the 9th August 1964 at Kwun Tong, during Typhoon Ida, a landslide of unprecedented dimensions occurred resulting in the lower floors of multi-storey resettlement blocks being covered in dirt and mud to a depth of 20 feet. The Fire Service took command at this incident which involved the evacuation of several thousand people and the setting up of a relief centre pending the arrival of Resettlement and Social Welfare personnel. As a considerable number of persons were reported missing, the incident was raised to fifth alarm category and more than a hundred Firemen toiled in pouring rain, and high winds, throughout the night and the following day, at the incredibly difficult task of 'Search and Rescue'. The whole area, which was a scene of utter desolation was illuminated with light supplied by Fire Service mobile generators and was searched by Firemen and members of Police Force up to their waists in mud without success. In fact only four persons were missing at this incident, their bodies being recovered several days later.

MUD SLIDE

115. On the 16th August 1964, at 3.30 p.m. in Kwun Tong, heavy rains produced a similar situation to the one previously described except that on this occasion the mud was more fluid and less difficulties were encountered. In view of the threatening situation, the late hour (midnight) and continuing bad weather, one hundred members of the Fire and Ambulance Services remained on the scene until daylight. Members of the Police Force carried out a unique rescue of three workers who were trapped by a sea of mud in mechanical excavators being used for clearing the road.

MOUNTAIN RESCUE

116. On the 5th September 1964, at 2.50 p.m. at Tates Cairn Peak, Kowloon, during Typhoon Ruby and with winds of 120 knots, the Fire Service were called to the assistance of Police personnel who, whilst travelling in a Land Rover, were blown off a road at the 700 feet level, a distance of 150 feet down the hillside. Fire Service personnel, together with members of the Police Force, using dogs, searched for six hours locating, and removing to safety, all but one member of the crew involved. One Policeman was killed and five suffered from exhaus- tion and exposure at this incident. Cooperation between the two Services at complete disregard for personal safety was superb.

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