FIRES AND WATER SUPPLY.

Patea Mail, 5 March 1881, Page 3

FIRES AND WATER SUPPLY.

Sin, —As you invito discussion on any topic of interest to the town of Patea, I take the opportunity to address the following- remarks on an all important subject, namely, water supply. In view of the late fire, the occasion is an appropriate one to urge upon the inhabitants of the town the necessity for a good water supply. Much argument is not needed, for even if the best fire engine possible could be procured by the Patea Y.F.8., it would be of but little avail in an extensive fire. Wells and tanks might perhaps suffice to extinguish a fire confined to one comparativly isolated building, but if a fire were to break out in any erection adjoining or in the midst of others, it is quite evident that with the present totally inadequate means at the disposal of the Brigade, to prevent a dire and disastrous conflagration would be an impossibility. It must be admitted that a water supply to the town is most essential for the protection of life and property. The ways and means, and from whence to obtain the same, require to be considered. Some may think it premature to burden the ratepayers with additional expenses in the shape of a water rate ; but better value could not surely be given for monej T invested than the sure aid and protection which an efficient water supply would give against fire, to say nothing of the convenience to householders during the droughts of summer. In conclusion, it may be added that a thoroughly equipped fire brigade and a good supply of the liquid element mean, or at least should mean, no inconsiderable reduction in insurance premiums, besides the infinitely less risk both of lives and property. Trusting the foregoing observations may tend to some good result, —I am, &c., Resident.