LAMP EXPLOSION

Hokitika Guardian, 28 June 1921, Page 4

LAMP EXPLOSION

THREE PERSONS INJURED. ACCIDENT AT ARTHURS’ PASS. A petrol tank exploded in a railway ganger’s hut at Arthur’s Pass on Wednesday and injured three persons, particulars are:Eolande M’Lay, 15 years of age, daughter of T. 1L M’Lay, severely Immed about the face and arms. Joy M’Lay, 8 years of age, also a daughter of T. 1L M’bnv. severely burnt about the face and arms. Clarence George Davis, 20 years of ago, tunnel-worker, employed by the Public Works Department, and boarding at M’Lay's house; burned about tier face and bands. The explosion took place at a quarter to eight, while a member of tho family was pumping air into the lamp, and while tlic others were siting round the table. There was a. loud report, followed by n short hurst of dame, which scorched the faces of both girls, as well iSs the face of the man. Cries for help wore quickly responded to and a summons was sent for the doctor stationed at the Otira end of the tunnel. Tn the meantime the smouldering lamp was removed. The house itself was not damaged, though some small articles wore destroyed. After medical attention had been given, and acting on advice a call was sent out for a special train to take the sufferers to the Christchurch Hospital. Under the rules of the Workers’ Medical Fund, provision is made for the despatch of an emergency train in case of serious accidents. The special returned to Christchurch at about (5 a.m., being met at the station hv an ambulance waggon.