706154-1870-GOVERNMENT-NOTIFICATION-NO-148 — Page 1

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THE HONGKONG

Government Gazette.

Published by Authority.

No. 48.

VICTORIA, SATURDAY, 19TH NOVEMBER, 1870.

VOL. XVI.

GOVERNMENT NOTIFICATION.

Νο. 148.

The following Report from the Superintendent of the Hongkong Fire Brigade is published for general information.

By Command,

Colonial Secretary's Office, Hongkong, 17th November, 1870.

J. GARDINER AUSTIN, Colonial Secretary.

No. 14.

FIRE BRIGADE OFFICE, HONGKONG, 12th November, 1870. SIR,I have the honor to forward to you, for submission to His Excellency the Lieutenant- Governor, the usual Report of the Hongkong Fire Brigade for the month of October, 1870.

A Parade and Inspection of the Volunteer and Government Brigades was held on the 15th October. The Engines of the Three Chinese Fire Engine Associations were on the ground; also the Chinese Volunteers in considerable strength. The Government Steam and Hand Engines, with the Hose-reels, Fire Ladders and Supply Carts were present. The Assembly took place at the Central Fire Brigade Station at 4 P.M. and thence the Force proceeded to the Praya near the Harbor Master's Office and streets adjacent. On getting up steam in the No. 2 Steam Engine it was found that there was an escape of steam; the Engineer, therefore, directed the fires to be drawn. The No. 1 Steam Engine was worked from the sea with four branches of delivery hose, and was found in thoroughly satisfactory condition. Two lengths of 100 feet each large-sized double Canvas Hose were tried and found suitable. This Hose was obtained (as preferable also) to avoid the expense of procuring the large size leather Hose from England.

The several Hand Engines, both Volunteer and Government, were worked from the Hydrants and were found in good order.

Immediately upon return to the Engine house the Engineer and Engine drivers proceeded to ascertain the cause of the escape of steam in No. 2 Steam Engine. This was found to arise from several screws being loose. The needful packing was applied and the same evening the Engine was tried and found in working order.

The Subsidiary Fire Stations were visited during the month; the Hose and Implements examined and with the exception of some trifling repairs (which were effected) found in good order.

On the 29th October the Government Fire Brigade was inspected: the Engines, Hose in use and in store, Ladders, Supply Carts and Implements generally found correct, clean, and in order.

I have the honor to be,

Sir,

Your most obedient Servant,

C. MAY, Superintendent Fire Brigade.

The Honorable J. GARDINER AUSTIN,

Colonial Secretary,

HONGKONG,