ENG-1984 — Page 257

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Up-to-date Guardians

The disciplined services in Hong Kong have kept abreast of modern technological developments. The Royal Hong Kong Police Force, in the forefront in adapting computer technology to its varied needs, moved a further step forward in 1984 with the establishment of a $40 million Joint Maritime Communications System - based at Marine Police regional headquarters in Tsim Sha Tsui by which joint police- military operations on land, at sea and in the air can be fully co-ordinated. The Fire Services Department has partially com- puterised its communications centre which receives around 900 emergency calls every 24 hours. When the department moves to new headquarters now being built in Tsim Sha Tsui East the communications centre will be fully computerised. The Correctional Services Department has made good use of the latest technology in the new maximum security Shek Pik Prison on Lantau Island. A comprehen- sive closed circuit television system of over 160 cameras is set up throughout the institution and there are 36 monitor screens in the control room. With all people aged 11 and over required by law to obtain identity cards, the Immigration Department has found that computers make the filing of large amounts of personal data a relatively simple task. As part of its work to combat smuggling, the Customs and Excise Service of the Customs and Excise Department uses X-ray equipment in checking luggage and cargo for contraband.

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Previous page: Fire drill at Hong Kong International Airport at Kai Tak. Left: Staff on duty at the new Joint Maritime Communications Centre at Marinë Police regional headquarters; a fire alarm panel at the Fire Services Communications Centre; the control room at Shek Pik Prison.