TERRIFIC EXPLOSIONS.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXIV, Issue 1052, 4 June 1912, Page 3

TERRIFIC EXPLOSIONS.

During the progress of the fire several explosions took place at intervals, the reports of which were terrific. Many people were of the opinion that they were caused by coal gas, but the gas mauager cut off the gas from the premises prior to their catching. It was afterwards ascertained that the explosions were caused by the bursting of several iron cylinders containing gasses used as anaesthetics in Mr Boyes’ dental chambers. It appears that several of these highly charged bullets were stored at the rear of Mrs Nye’s and the immense heat caused the gas to expand, hence the explosions. Particles of the cylinders were hurled with terrific force in different directions, fortunately not along the main thoroughfare, otherwise a number of fatalities would have occurred. Portion ot oue cylinder struck the feuce at the rear of the Post Office, knocking off two boards. A stack of firewood prevented its further progress. The force of the impact on the fence is clearly indicated. Fragments of other portions were found at considerable distances from tbe scene of the fire.

In conversation with Mr Boyes —who, by the way, was absent in Wanganui at the time of the conflagration—informed us that he hud a number of cylinders on the premises, two in the surgery and tbe balance in a detached house at the rear of the building'. The cylinders are made of steel and are tested to withstand a pressure up to 3,oUolbs. They contain N. 2.0. and are comparatively harmless unless subjected to extreme heat.