A singular mishap befell a member of the Fire Brigade named White during the progress of the trial of the Wainui-o-mata water supply yesterday. While in charge of a branch opposite the Athenaeum Buildings the hose became twisted round one of his arms, and before he could disengage the limb the water was turned on, and he was thrown to the ground with a jerk, much to his astonishment and greatly to the amusement of the spectators. Several of the latter hurried to his assistance, and he was promptly rescued from his unpleasant position in the mud.
A very satisfactory test of the pressure of the Wainui-o-mata water supply for fire extinguishing purposes was made between 4 and 5 o’clock yesterday afternoon by the members of the Fire Brigade, in the presence of a large number of people, including representatives of all the insurance companies doing business in the city. With a pressure of 145lbs to the square inch, four jets of water were sent up as far as the top of the tower on the Athenaeum Buildings. The number of branches was then increased to sixteen, and with so many jets in play the brigade were enabled to deluge the roof of the premises with water. The pressure at this time was 110lbs. The hose and hydrants were subsequently removed to the junction of Featherston and Grey streets and a test made of the pressure in that locality, the result being quite as successful as in the first instance. A dozen jets were thrown on to the roof of Messrs J. E. Nathan & Co.’s three-story warehouse, and it was apparent to those who were witnessing the display that in the event of an outbreak of fire on the premises the brigade would be able to grapple with the danger, provided of course that a prompt alarm was given. The hose used was perfectly new and no bursts occurred during the progress of the trial. The test was of the most satisfactory description and will tend to create a feeling of greater security from fire than has hitherto existed in the minds of city residents.
Tags: Newspaper Waterworks
