SERGEANT SIDDELLS’ FIRE ESCAPE.

Gisborne Times, Volume V, Issue 132, 14 June 1901, Page 2

SERGEANT SIDDELLS’ FIRE ESCAPE.

A rußLic trial of Sergeant Siddells fire escape was made yesterday afternoon, and again last evening, and caused a great deal of interest. The trial in the afternoon was made from the fire-bell tower in Gladstone road. Among those who climbed tho tower and went down by the escape was His Worship the Mayor, who was warmly applauded by the large crowd assembled.

In the evening at the Masonic Hotel, another practical exhibition was given in the presence of a large crowd. The firealarm was rung, and the escape was quickly got into use, twenty-three persons being conveyed to the ground by means of the shoot inside of five minutes after the alarm of fire was given. Sergeant Siddells does not claim that the fire escane is suitable under all circumstances, but is satisfied’that it provides au easy and safe removal of adults and children from high buildings under ordinary circumstances. It is specially adapted for use from balconies and the end of corridors, and is simple, cheap, and effective; In the absence of permanent stairways, which are tho only means of exit that can be considered perfect, other means should also be provided, and the Sergeant is of the opinion that his escape, which can be used at a moment’s notice' by any person, will be a great improvement on the ladders and ropes now universally in vogue. In perfecting the escape ho has. been ably assisted by Mr Cuthbert Morse, brother of the young lady of that name who received serious injuries at the burnin" of the Grand Hotel at Auckland. Sir Morse is naturally much interested in the matter, and is perfectly satisfied that if such an escape had been available his sister would not now be lying in the hospital. The Sergeant de-sires-us to say that he is indebted to Mr Walsh, of Slakaraka, for the idea of escape by means of a shoot.