PHYSICAL TRAINING AND EDUCATION
51. Within the compass of our modest resources good progress has been made and soundly based physical training and recreational pro- grammes are being conducted at all fire stations as part of the normal day to day routines.
52. The physical standards for entry into the Fire Service are prob- ably more exacting than for any other Government appointment and therefore generally ensure that in terms of physique and stamina fire- men are above the average for their class. Nevertheless, fire ground observations by senior officers and the experience and investigations by the Physical Education Officer clearly show that the stamina and recuperative capabilities of the average member of the rank and file fall very much short of that demanded by modern fire fighting. In consequence, success at operations, especially in multi-storey buildings, is increasingly dependent upon sheer weight of numbers of personnel.
53. The underlying causes of stamina shortcomings and the resolu- tion of the operational and administrative problems associated with measures to raise stamina levels and combat fatigue defy condensation into comprehensible annual report material. However, to eradicate any doubt that the subject of physical fitness is being actively tackled, it must be stated that investigations clearly indicate that physical exercise per se will not significantly raise the stamina levels and the Physical Education Officer must be reinforced as soon as possible by qualified assistants. Work is now in progress on the formulation of requirements under this subject including the revision of subsistence allowances and the payment thereof either in cash or kind to ensure that all personnel when on duty receive the minimum nutritional intake compatible with operational demands.
WELFARE AND DISCIPLINE
54. Financial difficulties continue to be the predominant problem in maintaining the well being and contentment of the rank and file. As will be seen from Appendix IX $32,123 in loans and grants were made by the Welfare Fund to help members of the rank and file in times of hardship.
55. During the year the procedure for paying out loans and grants was reviewed and streamlined. It is now usual in cases of genuine and urgent need for an applicant to receive financial assistance from the
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