Bay Of Plenty Beacon Published Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. MONDAY, MARCH 14, 1949 S.O.S.

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 13, Issue 64, 14 March 1949, Page 4

Bay Of Plenty Beacon Published Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. MONDAY, MARCH 14, 1949

S.O.S.

In the strongest possible terms, a circular from the Borough Council office to all power consumers in Whakatane appeals to users of electricity to take immediate steps to reduce the number of units they use substantially. It is .pointed out that only by the most stringent economy in the v.se of electricity during this and succeeding months will the Council be able to refrain from imposing drastic individual rationing. ' The appeal asks for a 20 per cent reduction, and adds that the saving must be made immediately. A desperate position has arisen with the power supply, and despite persistent endeavours, the Council has been able to obtain only a 4 per cent general increase in its allocation. There is little comfort in that achievement when it is noted that recent consumption has exceeded the new quota by 12-o- per cent. Response to repeated warnings has been disappointing. Indeed, over the past few weeks, though the position, has been placed candidly and clearly before the public, there has been a considerable increase in consumption. Alternative to a voluntary reduction in consumption, the Town Clerk’s circular points out, is drastic individual rationing under a scheme whereby the

wasteful consumers will be most penalised. Here is an opportunity for every resident to do something for the Borough and the community as a whole. Here is a chance, by act of selfdenial, to save mass inconvenience.

A little thoughtfulness now might save a whole lot of discomfort later on.

Ways to save power? One can do no better than to quote the suggestions made in the Borough circular under discussion: Switch range elements OFF or to low, before actual boiling point has been reached. Use stored-up heat wherever possible. Use the range fully while it is still hot, e.g., roast the meat and then do your baking while the oven is still hot.

Switch off all motors, when not in use; even for short periods.

Switch off all passage lights, outside and verandah lights. Do not leave room lights on when rooms are not in use. Switch off the radio.

If necessary, reduce the wattage in light fittings.

Do not heat water on the range far washing purposes; use the copper.

Commercial users to reduce all shop and window lights to a minimum.

All radiator load is strictly prohibited at all times.