IMPROPER STOWAGE OF LIFEBUOYS AND BOATS.

Globe, Volume XX, Issue 1380, 18 July 1878, Page 3

IMPROPER STOWAGE OF LIFEBUOYS AND BOATS.

The loss of the Loch Ard (says the "Leader") is typical of a large number of cases of vessels gent on long voyages with inadequate arrangements for the preservation of the lives of those on board in the event of disaster. There is an officer to inspect them before leaving port, but the duty appears to be either altogether neglected or only imperfectly discharged. One thing, then, should come of the late disastrous wreck—a representation from Mr Berry to the Secretary for the Colonics with regard to the condition in which the vessel was allowed to go to sea, and suggestions that precautions should he taken for the future to secure more effective inspection, and the removal of the boats from the skids on approaching port. We are told by the apprentice Pearce that whilst one of the boats was being released from the skids it was washed away ; and we have the statement of Miss Cartnichael that the life-saving appliances were in the hold, were out of repair, and insufficient in quality. Had things been otherwise it is probable that the loss of life would not have been so great. What can be more discreditable than that the main hatch had to be removed to get at the life-belts P In the Pacific mail steamers the belts are placed, it is said, under the passengers' bunks, and what more simple than to requira that this should be done in the case of every vessel leaving port ? The loss of the Dandenong caused a great stir, and wonders were to be done to protect life at sea. The fit passed and then comes the case of the Loch Ard. Is that fit also to pass, and the Bea have more prey before the sluggish blood of officialdom can be aroused to the necessity of doing something practical instead of writing and talking?