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Hokitika Guardian, 13 December 1927, Page 2

Tim occasion of the opening of the continuous telephone appears to be a matter for special remark. It bats been a movement in mind for a long time, but the first attempt failed. The second effort was successful, subscribers responding very readily to the appeal in the general interests of the town and district. The telephone bits its special uses in sudden emergency, and on that account it is difficult to estimate its particular value. It will be of service to the whole community, and that wide usefulness suggests that it must be of very special value. The adoption of continuous attendance at the Exchange enables the locality to be in touch with all the prinicipal conTres throughout the full day of 2t hours. This convenience must have great busino. s advantages. Its social value will be enhanced greatly, particularly by reason of the extra attention on Sundays and holidays. In dire emergency of sickness or fire or other sudden event, the fact that the telephone is open for u.se will add greatly to its value. Probably some system for use in ease of (ire alarm could be adopted which would ensure the full strength of the Brigade being notified ns promptly as possible. This lias been found neeessarv in the past, and the authorities have the opportunity of taking the matter up again. Through this channel alone, a great public service could lc rendered more than justifying the neeu for the continuous service.