HONGKONG FIRE BRIGADE ORDINANCE, 1868
Title
HONGKONG FIRE BRIGADE ORDINANCE, 1868
Description
Fire Brigade.
No. 4 of 1868.
An Ordinance for the Establishment of a Fire Brigade.
[22nd May, 1868.]
WHEREAS it is expedient to make further provision for the pro-
tectionof,life, and property frown fire within the Colony of Hong-
kung; 13e it therefore enacted by the Governor of I-3ongkong; with the
advice of the Legislative ('ouncil thereof; as follows :---
1. This Ordinance may be cited for all purposes as 'The Tiong- stkort,
titro:
lzong Fire Brigade Ordinance, 18u$.'
TTitle.
[See Ord.
Aro. 23 v1'
i88s.
rrearat>n.
2. Lt shall be lawful for the Governor to -select from the Polioe end. :
Govexnor .tp :'
select a fotco-
any others volunteering .for the duty a force to whom shall
.be-enttrusted.lnre;ationro.;
the duty of extinnuisliirlg fires and protecting life and property in
case,
,of fire within this Colony and to furnish the said force with -such fire-
-
engines, horses, accoutrements, -.tools and implements a.s M, ay be neces-
sary for. the complete equipment -of the said force or conducive to the
efficient performance of their duties.
3. The force of firemen established under this Urdinalrce.shall be
coristicteiar,t
of File ° . -
called the 'Honolkong Fire l'srigrrde,, ' and shall be under -he command
Brigade.:
of ail officer to be called the ' Superintendent .of the 1-longkong Fire
Brigade.' The Superintendent and men composing the said Fire Br=igade
shall be appointed acrd removed at the pleasure of the Governor.
4. The Governor in Council shall from time to time fix the amount `
s,1aries,-&o,
of salaries and working-pay to be. payable to members of the asaid Fire
of ~~e tuiLitg
Brigade, and may also make regulations firming the arnount,of compensa-
Brigade, :&c.
tion to be .made to them in case of accicie-nt .or .to their -wives or
families
.in case of their death, and . likewise the .bratuities to .be paid to
person
-diving notices :o£fires, and those to be*ow.tirrre to time awarded to any
Power to
make regula
tfons for
'Fire Brigade.
ORDINANCE :N=o: 4 'o'P~'~Sfi-S.
Fire Brigade.
member of the said force or to any other person for extraordinary
services performed in cases of fire, and the Governor is hereby authorized
to make all payment so ordered by the Governor in Council aforesaid
out of any movies belonging to the Colony.
5. The Governor in Council may make regulations for the training,
discipline and good conduct of the, men belonging to the said Fire
Brigade, ,
for their speedy attendance. with engines and all necessary implements
on the occasion of any alarm of fire and generally for the maintenance.,
in a due state of efficiency of the said Brigade and may ,annex to any
breach of such regulations, penalties not exceeding in amount twenty-
five dollars.
AS so powers 6. On the occasion of a fire the Superintendent or other
officer in
,,of-Fire
>3rtgado, charge of the .Fire Brigade may in his discretion take the
command of any
volunteer fire brigade or other persona who voluntarily place their
services at his disposal and may remove or order any firemen to remove
any persons interfering by their presence with the operations of the Fire
Brigade and generally may take such measures as may appear expedient
for the protection of life and property and may himself or his men break
into or through and take possession of or blow up with gunpowder or
pull down any premises for the purpose of putting an end to afire, end
any officer or member of the hire Brigade acting bo7u-,fide under this
Ordinance and the powers hereby conferred shall not be liable to any
damages for any act done under tljia section. The Superintendent of
the said Fire Brigade or other offlccr in charge thereof may close any
street in or near which afire is burning and may remove any persons
who interfere by their presence with .the operations of the Fire Brigade.
Any damage occasioned by the Fire Brigade in the execution of their
duties shall be deemed to be diimage by fire within the meaning of and
-policy of insurance aiiinst fire.
`7, The powers given to the Superintendent of Police by section 8
of Ordinance No. 9 of 1857 are hereby transferred to the Superintendent
or Officer in charge of the Fire Brigade for the time being.
Powers of
Superintend-
~ont of Police
under Orcii-
naiice X10.
.` 9 o=185?
tiariaferited
to,supe~n...
terident of.°
Fire Brf~ade.
Flro 8rigsda'
rate to be
tiap6aed,
8. There shall be levied quarterly on the Crown lessees of all lands in
the districts
compxised within the City of Victoria, a rate to be called a fire
:brigade rate nut
exceeding three-fourths per cent per annum on the gross annual value of
property set
Charge of Brigade.
1. In the absence of the Superintendent, `the Senior Assistant
-.Superintendent will
command the Brigade; and in the absence of the Superintendents, the
foremen will. take
charge according to seniority.
Fire Alarm.
1
2. On the alarm o£ fire, the bell will be rung without delay, first with
a quick alarm
for five minutes-to be followed by single, double, or troble beats to:
denote the situation
of the fire: one stroke indicating, the eastern district, eastward of
9~urray Barracks; two,
the .central, from Murray Barracks to the Harbour Office; and three, the
western district.
A' (a.) The foremen _and pioneers will at once pxocod to the fire and
prepare for
the arrival o£ the engines; they must carefully examine the premises_oii-
fire and the surrounding -buildiags-and obtain all possible ihforma,ti6nas
to the-water supply, with the view to the most effective working o£ the
fire engines: They should use every means in their, power tti;eseJ.udo-
all avoidable currents of air' from the fire, and ascertain
andasceriabl:,wh4bir there
are any communications with the adjoining hoses by' the -roof, gable, or
otherwise.
ORDIN:4\C.la;',~ No. 4: oF..h868.
Fire Brigade.
forth in the Police rate assessment for each current year, and the first
levy of the said
rate shall be made for the third quarter of the year 1$68; and the said
rate shall be
applied in maintaining the said Fire Brigade, and in defraying all
expenses connected
therewith. [Repealed by Ordinance No. 12 of r875.]
9. This Ordinance, Ordinance No. 12 of 1860, Ordinance No. 5 of 1863
and Ordinances to
be construed
Ordinance No. 11 of 1867, shall be construed together and for all
requisite purposes together.
be deemed and taken as one Ordinance and the ways and means for carrying
this
Ordinance into effect, shall be the same as prescribed by the two last
mentioned
Ordinances. [.Repealed by Ordinance No. 12 of 1875.
10. X11 offences under this Ordinance shall be triable before one of
O&naes hew
the Police Magistrates, who shall have power to enforce all penalties
tr'abie.
hereby imposed, or which may be imposed by any order of the Governor
in Council.
11. This Ordinance shall, come into force on such day as shall
hereafter be fixed by proclamation under the hand of the Governor.
[In fonee, from 23rd May, 1868, by proclamation of same date.
Comupenccs-
ment of
Ordinance.
Regulations for the Hongkong Fire Brigade made by the Governor in _
Coiincal u.-rtder >;he 'N'~,*
c~_ z U.~eerf~a:- _
provisions of Ordinance 4 of 1868, on the -28th
Aujust;-I8S2-(Gaxe~te.l6th,
Fire Brigade.'
(b.) The engine drivers of steam engines will immediately. light fires in
the,
engines,' and &11 members of the Brigade stationed? on the central
district will hasten to the central Fire Brigade Station to assist in
taking
the engines to the fire; but those men who are in charge of hose reels;;
coal carts, ladders, supply carts, &c., must on no account neglect those
duties which they have.lieen specially appointed to perform.
Arrival of Engines at Fires.
$.' On the arrival of the engines, the assistant foremen and- the
assistant engine,
drivers will at once connect the delivery hoses with the engines, and
then run them out
towards the fire as directed by the Superintendents or foremen. After
thin, the suction
hose will be carefully connected, and the assistant engine driver will
see that it is properly
screwed home. It must always be borne in mind that the shorter the
auction hose the
greater is the power obtained.
(a.) The hosomen attached to each engine will see that the hose is laid
on in as
straight a line as practicable without twists, sharp turns, or unnecessary
bonds; they must, from time to time, observe the position of the hose
reel, so that they may be always prepared to replace promptly any length
which may be burst or otherwise damaged.
Foremen.
4. Foremen and assistant foremen are expected to make themselves
acquainted with
the water system of Victoria (a plan of which will be supplied); to know
the position of
main plugs in all parts of the town, and also the tanks from which they
are supplied.
They should be able to give the men under them instructions on all points
relating to
their dutyf such as connecting, disconnecting, and running out hose, 'and
also as to the
position of main plugs, wells, and other sources of water supply. It is
their duty to
ascertain the cause of fire in each case, and to report the same to the
Superintendent also
Yo observe the conduct of the officers and men under them, and to report
any irregularity
'on their part without delay.
(a.) When on duty at a fire, they must see that the men -at the branch are
placed in such a position that the stream may actually strike the burning
materials. Playing at random through a window should be avoided
whenever it is possible to obtain a better position, either by entering
the
house which is on fire, by ;ascending the roof of an adjoining building,
or otherwise. They should, see that a safe retreat is kept open for the
men at the branch, and that those working manual engines are not ex-
posed to unnecessary danger.
Engine Drivers.
5. Engine drivers and assistant engine drivers should be thoroughly
acquainted with
trio water system; and should know where a supply of fresh or sea water
could most
`°~ikdily be obtained in airy part of the town.
* 77its is to be considered discretionary when the fire Ss known to be at
a consideFAble distance from the station.
O=R,DIIVAN1,C: : t-FQ* 4,oF
They will be held responsible that the coal carts, hose reels, supply
carts,
ladders,; 8zc., are st all times ready for use, and that those, together
with
a, sufficient supply of hose, and other material, accompany the engine to
which they are attached, to the fire.
(b.) In moving the engines, they must be most careful that no injury is
done
to the hose of other brigades.
(e:) T hey are to carry out the orders of - the engineer, and are on no
account to
disconnect any portion of the machinery without his permission, unless
on an emergency they be ordered to do so by one of the Superintendents.
Firemen and, other Members of the Fire Brigade.
6. Without the permission of one of the Superintendents, no fireman or .
other
member of the Brigade is, while on duty, of receive any refreshment
whatever, except
that which will, whop necessary, be supplied at the Government expense.
(a.) The duties of firemen being differerit from hose of Police
constables, the
senior officer present may, at his discretion, allow the men to smoke
after
the fire has been extinguished, provided they, are not actively engaged.
(L.) Members of the Brigade are not to receive orders from any ono except
their
own officers. They sliould always be respectful towards those with
whom they are brought in contact, and afford every assistance in their
power to members of otber.,fire brigades.
' (c.) As .t.ho reputation of the Brigade depends, in a great nneasuro,
upon the.
behaviour of tl7e firornen, any case of incivility' or disrespect will be
considered to disqualify tlxern.. for the post.
02ct-Stations.
7, In the out-stations, where there are no officers of the Brigade, the
Police Inspector
may take charge of the engine in the. eaect af,,4 fire. .k1t other
times,=.the care. of the
engine anal; other Fire Brigade material will rest with the fireman, who
will see that the,
rules here,laid down for-working, the engines are observed. In the,
eastern and western
districts of Victoria, slag, the. sepior firemen will have charge of the
-engines and other
Fire Brigade equipirient.
Engineer.
$. .Tlie engineer must attend ~ all fires'arid all inspections. He
should, on the first
day of each month, send to the Superintendent a report;showing the
condition of each,
of the hand and steam engines stationed in Victoria, -the repairs or
alterations effected
during,ahe month, and those which he considers still necessary.
(0-),,FIe_ its erected to ipstrqct, tlie,eugjine drivers and asAs engine
drivers
-a
in; duties, and to supervise their wor~; aI nd,he~ hould bring any
' - d,§obedience pr ,ipatteuxion pp tlteir part at once t6 tbenotice of
the. . _ SpPq3n:tEndent:
aRmvAXcr~ No: 4 of 1s6s
Fire Brigade.
(b.) Ho will tort the boilers of all the steam engines of the Brigade
once every,
six months under hydraulic pressure equal to at least fifty per centum
snore than that used at fires and report having done so, to the Superin-
tendent, in writing.
.Firemen's .Equipment.
9. Firemen will be supplied with the following articles of clouting every
two years
1 'Punic.
I Pair trowsera.
1 Cap or hat.
' 2 Pairs of boots or shoes.
The helmet, belt, Sac., will he supplied as required, and clothing
destroyed at fires:
will, with the approval of tho Superintendent, be replaced free of charge.
Station of Watchmen and Stokers.
10. The watchmen and stokers of the hire Brigade win be stationed and
ernployod
tie follows :-
6 6 Watchmen.
Central Fire Brigade Station, ..... .... ~ k
4 Sto ers.
Harbour Master's Ofl'ICers' Qua rters, .. . . ., .. 2 Watchmen.
West Point Engine Souse, . ... ... .... ..2 Watchmen.
'fast Point Engine )louse, . ,. ... . . , . . .: ..2 Watchmen.
Clock Tower Alarm Bell, . . . . . . . .. . . . . . .. . .2 Watchmen.
Duties.
*CENTRAL STATION.-WATER TOWER.
(ci.) ` No. I. Watchman, ... ... ...... ... ... from G P.M. to 9 p.m.
No. 2.
No. 3.
No. 4.
12 P.- to 3 A.M.
CENTRAL STATION.-ENGINE.HOUSE.
No.' I. Stoker,
No. 2.
No. 3.
No. 4.
No. 5. ~~ . -.
No. I. Watchman,
No. 2.
N 0. 3.
No. 4.
from 6 P.m.' to 12 P.m-
I2 p.m. to 6 A.M
G A.M. to noon.
noon to 6 P.m.
6 P.M. to -2 A.M.,
2 A.M. to 6 A.M.:
6A.m. to 10 A.m.
IO-A.M.tO 2.r.M..
2 P.m. to 6 P.M_
ORDIV'ANCliv No. 4 0v
Fire,<Brigasae.
(c.) Watchmen and stokers, while on duty, must at all times be neatly
dressed
in uniform. The man on the tower will strike the boars and half -hom's
by the ships' bolls. He must keep a strict look- out and ring the alarm
(vide sec. 2), without delay, should lie see a fire in any part of
Victoria.
In doubtful cases, or in the event of fire on board ship, or in British
Rau-lung, lie will call the.: engine driver without delay and be guided
by his instructions.
(d.) The stoker on duty in the Central Station will remain in the engine
roam,
and the watchman will be responsible for the rest .of tho building. ,,
(e.) In the event of fire, the watchman on enJine horse duty will remain
in
charge of tho building while the other watchmen and stokers accompany
the engines and hoso reels to which they a-re'attacbed.
The engine drivers, stokers anti watchmen at the Central Fire Brigade
Station, Harbour Office, East and West Point Engine Houses, will do duty
in tern during the day and night, six hours on and six off. While on
duty, they mast at all times be neatly dressed in uniform. '.LNo engine
driver, stoker or watchman is to absent himself from his station at
any time without the sanction of the officer in charge of the Central
Fire.
Brigade Station.
O,#ences b y Members of the Fire Brigade.
12. Whenever any foreman, ~watcliman, angina driver, or other member of
tho'.Niro
Brigade shall be guilty of 'y-neglect or violation of duty, or -breach
-of discipline, or, shall
be guilty of any disobedience to the regulations framed nnder.section 5
of Ordinance 44,
1868, or of any other misconduct as a mombei`'of the dire Brigade; or
shall -not, upoi,;
ceasing to belong to the Brigade, deliver all,- uniform, accoutrements
and alTointments'
entrusted to him for the performance of his duty, shall on conviction
thereof bef6rea' Police
Magistrate be liable to a fino of'not exceeding twenty-five dollars.
Regulations for the Hongkong Fire Brigade made by the Governor in Council
under
the provisions of Ordinance No. 4 of 1868, on the 8th December, 1882.
1. All officers of the Brigade, except those detailed for duty elsewhere,
are to reside
within the limits of the town of Victoria and are not to absent
themselves except on duty,
without the permission of the Sixporinteridont, and-'any officer becoming
incapacitated by:,
illness or otherwise should report the fact as soon;aspossible to the
Superintendent.
2,-In the absence of the Saperintendent,=the senior Assistant
Superintendent Will,r
command the-Brigade; and in -the absence of the Superintendents, the
foremen will Uke..
charge according to seniority.
All inembers of the Brigade should'xnake themselves acquainted with the
water
:9ystem.: of. Victoria.- They should know the -position of fire plugs in
all the principal
NoTE~2he abodektepnlations are printed although they are probably
superseded by the
Regulations:, of the 8th December 1882.
ORDTNit1NCt `N®: 4 or4 i%a6v.
Are,Bmigude.
'streets, and the tanks from which they also'the -situation
:of wells, and the
,average depth of water at all points accessible to an engine along the
Praya wall. This.
oider applies especially to the officers of the Brigade who axe expected
to know the best
means of supplying an engine with water in any part of the town.
' 4. On the alarm of fire, the bell will be rung without delay. First
with a quick
alarm for two minutes, to be followed by single, double, or treble
strokes to denote they
situation of the fire. One stroke indicating the eastern district,
eastward of Murray
Barracks; two, the central district, from Murray Barracks to the Harbour
Office; and.
three, 'the'westorn' district.
5. On the 'alarm being sounded, firemen and officers who have not
been'told off for
special duty will hasten to the engine house'of their district to assist
in taking the engines
to the fire. But those in charge of hose reels, coal carts, ladders,
supply carts, &c.; must
on no account neglect the duties which they have been specially appointed
to,perform.
6. On the arrival of the engines at the scene of fire, they will be
stationed in such
positions as the senior officer present may direct. In placing them, as
wall as in 1r.1 a
out the hose, great care should be taken to allow as mach space as
possible for the us&:
of any opines that may subsequently arrive on the ground. On potting the
engine as.
close to the water supply as the nature of the ground will admit, the
delivery hose should.
first be connected and run out towards the fire as .directed by the
senior officer present;.
next the suntion hose should ,be carefully screwed home. It mast be
always borne in -
mind that the shorter the'suction hose, the -greater the power obtained,
and -that,:if= carew.
lossly connected, the efficiency of~the engine may be seriously affected.
7. Great care should be taken to rnr) out the hose in as straight; a line
as possiblcs
without twists, sharp turns, or unnecessary bends. The firemen attached
to ~each engine
should, from time to tune, observe the position of the reel or other hose
supply, so that
they may be able to replace promptly any length which may burst or become
.otherwise
damaged.
$,' Firemen in charge of the branch should place themselves in such a
position that.
the stream from the nozzle-may actually strike the burning materials.
Playing at random
from the ground, through a window should be avoided, whenever it is
possible to obtain
a better position, either by entering the premises on fire, ascending the
roof of an adjoin=
_,Ing building, or btheiw-ise.
S. In moving engines, escapes, 'Supply carts, &c., great care should be
taken not t~
injure the hose of other brigades.
10. Without the permission of one of the Superintendents, no foreman or
other
member of the Biigade is to receive any refreshment whatever, while on
duty, except,
that which, when necessary, will be supplied free of cost by the
Government.
.11.. 9L1 members of the Brigade ,are strictly prohibited from smoking
while on duty
,rM.,fl.res or inspections. But men remaining owwatch after a fire has
been subdued, way
atr the discretion of the senior. officer present be. allowed to smpke
when not actively
engaged.
'Vat)INANCE2 . N
, ov 4 of M6'3.
Fire Brigade.-,
12. Members of the Brigade are not to receive orders from any one except.
their own
officers. They should always be respectful towards those with whom they
are brought
in contact, and should afford every assistance in their power to members
of other brigades.
13. As the reputation of the Brigade depends in a great measure upon the
behaviour
of the firemen, any case of incivility,will be considered to disqualify
thaw for the pos t.
14. In out-stations, where there are no officers of the Brigade, the
Police Inspector
will take charge of the engine in the event of fire. At other times, the
care of the
engine and other fire brigade material will rest with the fireman, who
will see. that the
rules here laid down for working the engines are observed. In the eastern
and western
districts of Victoria., the senior firemen will have charge of the
engines and other fire
brigade equipment.
115; Firemen will be supplied with the following articles of clothing
every two
years :--
I Tunic.
I Pair trowsers.
1 Cap or hat.
2 Pairs boots or shoos.
The helmet, belt, &c., will bo supplied as required, and clothing damaged
or destroyed
at fires will, with the approval of the Superintendent, be replaced free
of charge.
Foremen and Assistant Foremen.
18, h'oremon.and assistant foremen should be able to instruct those and®r
.Lhmm in
%ll matters relating tar their duty, su<sh: as connecting, diaconnoating
and runeing, ou.t TSa';
and'also as to the situation of wells, ,fire plugs and other sources- of
waterSupply..
i, It- is their duty to ascertain and report to the Superintendent.
thwaause of fire
in eaeli ease. ,
ii. They should observe the conduct of- the officers and men under them
and,
report any irregularity on their part or guy infringement of the depart-
mental regulations without delay to the Superintendent.
iii. On the alarm of fire if they have not been detailed for special duty
they
will, at once proceed with the pioneers and carafullg eNamino tlaae burn-
ing premises and the surrounding buildings, They should V also obtain
all possible information regarding the water supply. and the different
approaches to the fire, with a view to laying the hose,. and employing
the engine in the most effective manner. In placing the engine they -
should see that the directions _giveri in rule 6 are strictly observed.
They should use every means in their power to exclude all avoidable'
currents of air from the fire and to ascertain whether there are any
communications with the adjoining houses either by the roof,, gable or
otherwise.
im::The;y should see=that the men at the branches are placed in the best
poasi-
' blew position and that the directions contained in rule & are carried out
as well as circumatances:will admit.
OR:=DTNANCE -. No: 4 of 18G8:
Fire Brigade.
v. In the absence of the Superintendent and his assistant they should see
that -
a safe retreat is kept open for the branchmen and see that those engaged
with manual engines are not exposed to unnecessary danger.
Engineer.
1'/. The engineer will attend all,fixes, and all inspections of engines
or machinery:
tie should, on the first day of each month, send to the Superintendent a
report, showing
the condition of each of the hand, and steam engines stationed in
Victoria, the repairs or
alterations effected during the month, and those which ho considers still
necessary.
i. He is expected to instruct the engine drivers and assistant engine
drivers in
their duties, and to supervise their work; and be should bring any dis-
obedience or inattention on 'their part at once to the notice of the
Superintendent.
. 18. This officer's ,duty is to'aid the chief engineer in his various
duties, to instruct
the engine drivers, assistant engine drivers, watchmen and stokers in
their work and'tii.
repair anti keep in order all the material of the Brigade.
will test the
ii. Ile boilers of all the steam engines of the Brigade once every
six months under hydraulic pressure equal to fifty per centum morn than
that used at fires, and report having done so to the Superintendent, in
writing.
Assistant Engineer.
i: Ho will have charge of the stores in the Central Station and keep a
record-
of all articles received and expended, giving the dates on which they.
were received into or issued out of stock.
ii. He will furnish a monthly return of all serviceable and unserviceable
articles
in store to the Superintendent.
iii. Ho will at least once a month visit the different -engine houses and
hose
stations in Victoria, and the out-stations, and see that each engine is
properly equipped, and that hose and other supplies are properly looked
after by those in charge.
After fixes and inspections he should see that all hose has been properly
washed and dried before it is put on the reels, and that damaged lengths
are set aside for repair:
He will arrange the duties .of men in charge of coal'carts, hose
reels,.supply
carts, ladders and escapes at the Central Station, and see that these
appliances are at all times properly equipped and.xaady for;use, and that
they, .together with a sufficient supply of hose and other material,
accompany the ongiyes to.a.fixe.
nRDi1'I~TCE No.' 4 of 1-865:.
Tire Brigade.
19, When not required for their regular duty, engine drivers and
assistant engine
drivers will be employed in such manner as the assistant engineer, with
the sanction of
the Superintendent, may direct.
i. On hearing the alarm, they will at once light lire, unless they receive
orders
to the contrary from the assistant engineer.
ii. When on duty with engines at fires or inspections, they will see that
the
directions regarding connecting delivery for suction hose laid down in
rule 6 are strictly observed. The engine driver will be held responsible
that the different joints of the suction hose are firmly screwed hem©. x
iii. When told off to take charge of a coal cart, hose reel, supply cart,
ladder or
escape, they will be liable to dismissal if it is not at all times ready
for
rise or if they fail to take it with the engines to a fire. They will also
be held responsible for any infringement of rule 9.
iv. They' are to obey the orders of the engineer and his assistant and
are on no
account to disconnect any portion of the machinery -without his per-
mission, unless on an emergency they bo ordered to do so by one of the
Superintendents.
Engine Drivers and Assistant Engine Drivers.
Stokers and TYktclamen.
20. Stokers, when not required for their ordinary work, will perform the
duty of:
watchmen in such manner as the Superintendent may from time to time
direct. : Water . ~.EX,
',
nazi and stokers, while'on duty, mast be neatly dressed in -urizforzn -
The ritau- on dtat~' -: ^
onthe tower of the Central Station will strike the 'hours. and half hours-
by Abe
hells. Ho must keep a strict look out and ring- the alarm (see, rule 4)t'
wxtho ut` delay.v ' , ~;
should ho see a fire in any part of Victoria. In ,doub tful cases .or in
the event of a fire -on
board ship or in British Kowloon, he will at once caIL the senior
officer., present _ an& be
guided by his instructions.
i. The stoker on duty, in the Central Station will remain ln' the' engine
room
and the watchman will be responsible for the rest of, the building.
ii. In the event of fire, the watchman on the engine room duty 'will
remain in.
charge of the building, while the other watchmen and stokers-accompany
the engines, hose reels, &c., to which they, are attached to the fire
iii. Engine drivers, stokers, and watchmen at the different ermine
houses, file- 'v
alarms; and, stations -wi.ll keep watch in such manner as the Supertn
teadent, may, from time to time direct; while on ditty that' must at x,11
times be neatly dressed in uniform. No engine driver, stoker or 'watch _:
man is .to absent himself at any time without the sanction of
the.;offlcex,.-,,
in charge 'of the Central Fire Brigade Station.
2i.: Every member o£. the Brigade; on being
required`thereto,slaaTl:ileliver-up alk
ttnifoxm;aecoutrements and appointments entrusted to him for
the-:perforyance of hi&.
Fire Brigade.
No. 4 of 1868.
22. Whenever any foxeman,.fireman, engine driver, or other member of the Brigade
shall be guilty of any disobedience of regulations .framed under section 5 of Ordinance 4
of 1868, he shall, on conviction thereof before a Police Magistrate, be liable to a fine of
not exceeding twenty-five dollars.
Note -- For superseded regulations :
of the 18th February, 1876, see Gazette of the 19th of the same month.
-of ,the 5th October, 1880, see Gazette of the 11th December, 1880.
991
Tilte.
[See Ord. No. 23 of 1888.]
Preamble.
Short title.
Governor to select a force in relation to fires.
Constitution of Fire Brigade.
Salaries, &c. and gratuities of Fire Brigade, &c.
992
Power to make regulations for Fire Brigade.
As to powers of Fire Brigade.
Powers of Superintendent of Police under Ordinance No. 9 of 1857 transferred to Superintendent of Fire Brigade.
Fire Brigade rate to be imposed.
993
Ordinances to be construed together.
Offences how triable.
Commencement of Ordinance.
994
995
1002
No. 4 of 1868.
An Ordinance for the Establishment of a Fire Brigade.
[22nd May, 1868.]
WHEREAS it is expedient to make further provision for the pro-
tectionof,life, and property frown fire within the Colony of Hong-
kung; 13e it therefore enacted by the Governor of I-3ongkong; with the
advice of the Legislative ('ouncil thereof; as follows :---
1. This Ordinance may be cited for all purposes as 'The Tiong- stkort,
titro:
lzong Fire Brigade Ordinance, 18u$.'
TTitle.
[See Ord.
Aro. 23 v1'
i88s.
rrearat>n.
2. Lt shall be lawful for the Governor to -select from the Polioe end. :
Govexnor .tp :'
select a fotco-
any others volunteering .for the duty a force to whom shall
.be-enttrusted.lnre;ationro.;
the duty of extinnuisliirlg fires and protecting life and property in
case,
,of fire within this Colony and to furnish the said force with -such fire-
-
engines, horses, accoutrements, -.tools and implements a.s M, ay be neces-
sary for. the complete equipment -of the said force or conducive to the
efficient performance of their duties.
3. The force of firemen established under this Urdinalrce.shall be
coristicteiar,t
of File ° . -
called the 'Honolkong Fire l'srigrrde,, ' and shall be under -he command
Brigade.:
of ail officer to be called the ' Superintendent .of the 1-longkong Fire
Brigade.' The Superintendent and men composing the said Fire Br=igade
shall be appointed acrd removed at the pleasure of the Governor.
4. The Governor in Council shall from time to time fix the amount `
s,1aries,-&o,
of salaries and working-pay to be. payable to members of the asaid Fire
of ~~e tuiLitg
Brigade, and may also make regulations firming the arnount,of compensa-
Brigade, :&c.
tion to be .made to them in case of accicie-nt .or .to their -wives or
families
.in case of their death, and . likewise the .bratuities to .be paid to
person
-diving notices :o£fires, and those to be*ow.tirrre to time awarded to any
Power to
make regula
tfons for
'Fire Brigade.
ORDINANCE :N=o: 4 'o'P~'~Sfi-S.
Fire Brigade.
member of the said force or to any other person for extraordinary
services performed in cases of fire, and the Governor is hereby authorized
to make all payment so ordered by the Governor in Council aforesaid
out of any movies belonging to the Colony.
5. The Governor in Council may make regulations for the training,
discipline and good conduct of the, men belonging to the said Fire
Brigade, ,
for their speedy attendance. with engines and all necessary implements
on the occasion of any alarm of fire and generally for the maintenance.,
in a due state of efficiency of the said Brigade and may ,annex to any
breach of such regulations, penalties not exceeding in amount twenty-
five dollars.
AS so powers 6. On the occasion of a fire the Superintendent or other
officer in
,,of-Fire
>3rtgado, charge of the .Fire Brigade may in his discretion take the
command of any
volunteer fire brigade or other persona who voluntarily place their
services at his disposal and may remove or order any firemen to remove
any persons interfering by their presence with the operations of the Fire
Brigade and generally may take such measures as may appear expedient
for the protection of life and property and may himself or his men break
into or through and take possession of or blow up with gunpowder or
pull down any premises for the purpose of putting an end to afire, end
any officer or member of the hire Brigade acting bo7u-,fide under this
Ordinance and the powers hereby conferred shall not be liable to any
damages for any act done under tljia section. The Superintendent of
the said Fire Brigade or other offlccr in charge thereof may close any
street in or near which afire is burning and may remove any persons
who interfere by their presence with .the operations of the Fire Brigade.
Any damage occasioned by the Fire Brigade in the execution of their
duties shall be deemed to be diimage by fire within the meaning of and
-policy of insurance aiiinst fire.
`7, The powers given to the Superintendent of Police by section 8
of Ordinance No. 9 of 1857 are hereby transferred to the Superintendent
or Officer in charge of the Fire Brigade for the time being.
Powers of
Superintend-
~ont of Police
under Orcii-
naiice X10.
.` 9 o=185?
tiariaferited
to,supe~n...
terident of.°
Fire Brf~ade.
Flro 8rigsda'
rate to be
tiap6aed,
8. There shall be levied quarterly on the Crown lessees of all lands in
the districts
compxised within the City of Victoria, a rate to be called a fire
:brigade rate nut
exceeding three-fourths per cent per annum on the gross annual value of
property set
Charge of Brigade.
1. In the absence of the Superintendent, `the Senior Assistant
-.Superintendent will
command the Brigade; and in the absence of the Superintendents, the
foremen will. take
charge according to seniority.
Fire Alarm.
1
2. On the alarm o£ fire, the bell will be rung without delay, first with
a quick alarm
for five minutes-to be followed by single, double, or troble beats to:
denote the situation
of the fire: one stroke indicating, the eastern district, eastward of
9~urray Barracks; two,
the .central, from Murray Barracks to the Harbour Office; and three, the
western district.
A' (a.) The foremen _and pioneers will at once pxocod to the fire and
prepare for
the arrival o£ the engines; they must carefully examine the premises_oii-
fire and the surrounding -buildiags-and obtain all possible ihforma,ti6nas
to the-water supply, with the view to the most effective working o£ the
fire engines: They should use every means in their, power tti;eseJ.udo-
all avoidable currents of air' from the fire, and ascertain
andasceriabl:,wh4bir there
are any communications with the adjoining hoses by' the -roof, gable, or
otherwise.
ORDIN:4\C.la;',~ No. 4: oF..h868.
Fire Brigade.
forth in the Police rate assessment for each current year, and the first
levy of the said
rate shall be made for the third quarter of the year 1$68; and the said
rate shall be
applied in maintaining the said Fire Brigade, and in defraying all
expenses connected
therewith. [Repealed by Ordinance No. 12 of r875.]
9. This Ordinance, Ordinance No. 12 of 1860, Ordinance No. 5 of 1863
and Ordinances to
be construed
Ordinance No. 11 of 1867, shall be construed together and for all
requisite purposes together.
be deemed and taken as one Ordinance and the ways and means for carrying
this
Ordinance into effect, shall be the same as prescribed by the two last
mentioned
Ordinances. [.Repealed by Ordinance No. 12 of 1875.
10. X11 offences under this Ordinance shall be triable before one of
O&naes hew
the Police Magistrates, who shall have power to enforce all penalties
tr'abie.
hereby imposed, or which may be imposed by any order of the Governor
in Council.
11. This Ordinance shall, come into force on such day as shall
hereafter be fixed by proclamation under the hand of the Governor.
[In fonee, from 23rd May, 1868, by proclamation of same date.
Comupenccs-
ment of
Ordinance.
Regulations for the Hongkong Fire Brigade made by the Governor in _
Coiincal u.-rtder >;he 'N'~,*
c~_ z U.~eerf~a:- _
provisions of Ordinance 4 of 1868, on the -28th
Aujust;-I8S2-(Gaxe~te.l6th,
Fire Brigade.'
(b.) The engine drivers of steam engines will immediately. light fires in
the,
engines,' and &11 members of the Brigade stationed? on the central
district will hasten to the central Fire Brigade Station to assist in
taking
the engines to the fire; but those men who are in charge of hose reels;;
coal carts, ladders, supply carts, &c., must on no account neglect those
duties which they have.lieen specially appointed to perform.
Arrival of Engines at Fires.
$.' On the arrival of the engines, the assistant foremen and- the
assistant engine,
drivers will at once connect the delivery hoses with the engines, and
then run them out
towards the fire as directed by the Superintendents or foremen. After
thin, the suction
hose will be carefully connected, and the assistant engine driver will
see that it is properly
screwed home. It must always be borne in mind that the shorter the
auction hose the
greater is the power obtained.
(a.) The hosomen attached to each engine will see that the hose is laid
on in as
straight a line as practicable without twists, sharp turns, or unnecessary
bonds; they must, from time to time, observe the position of the hose
reel, so that they may be always prepared to replace promptly any length
which may be burst or otherwise damaged.
Foremen.
4. Foremen and assistant foremen are expected to make themselves
acquainted with
the water system of Victoria (a plan of which will be supplied); to know
the position of
main plugs in all parts of the town, and also the tanks from which they
are supplied.
They should be able to give the men under them instructions on all points
relating to
their dutyf such as connecting, disconnecting, and running out hose, 'and
also as to the
position of main plugs, wells, and other sources of water supply. It is
their duty to
ascertain the cause of fire in each case, and to report the same to the
Superintendent also
Yo observe the conduct of the officers and men under them, and to report
any irregularity
'on their part without delay.
(a.) When on duty at a fire, they must see that the men -at the branch are
placed in such a position that the stream may actually strike the burning
materials. Playing at random through a window should be avoided
whenever it is possible to obtain a better position, either by entering
the
house which is on fire, by ;ascending the roof of an adjoining building,
or otherwise. They should, see that a safe retreat is kept open for the
men at the branch, and that those working manual engines are not ex-
posed to unnecessary danger.
Engine Drivers.
5. Engine drivers and assistant engine drivers should be thoroughly
acquainted with
trio water system; and should know where a supply of fresh or sea water
could most
`°~ikdily be obtained in airy part of the town.
* 77its is to be considered discretionary when the fire Ss known to be at
a consideFAble distance from the station.
O=R,DIIVAN1,C: : t-FQ* 4,oF
They will be held responsible that the coal carts, hose reels, supply
carts,
ladders,; 8zc., are st all times ready for use, and that those, together
with
a, sufficient supply of hose, and other material, accompany the engine to
which they are attached, to the fire.
(b.) In moving the engines, they must be most careful that no injury is
done
to the hose of other brigades.
(e:) T hey are to carry out the orders of - the engineer, and are on no
account to
disconnect any portion of the machinery without his permission, unless
on an emergency they be ordered to do so by one of the Superintendents.
Firemen and, other Members of the Fire Brigade.
6. Without the permission of one of the Superintendents, no fireman or .
other
member of the Brigade is, while on duty, of receive any refreshment
whatever, except
that which will, whop necessary, be supplied at the Government expense.
(a.) The duties of firemen being differerit from hose of Police
constables, the
senior officer present may, at his discretion, allow the men to smoke
after
the fire has been extinguished, provided they, are not actively engaged.
(L.) Members of the Brigade are not to receive orders from any ono except
their
own officers. They sliould always be respectful towards those with
whom they are brought in contact, and afford every assistance in their
power to members of otber.,fire brigades.
' (c.) As .t.ho reputation of the Brigade depends, in a great nneasuro,
upon the.
behaviour of tl7e firornen, any case of incivility' or disrespect will be
considered to disqualify tlxern.. for the post.
02ct-Stations.
7, In the out-stations, where there are no officers of the Brigade, the
Police Inspector
may take charge of the engine in the. eaect af,,4 fire. .k1t other
times,=.the care. of the
engine anal; other Fire Brigade material will rest with the fireman, who
will see that the,
rules here,laid down for-working, the engines are observed. In the,
eastern and western
districts of Victoria, slag, the. sepior firemen will have charge of the
-engines and other
Fire Brigade equipirient.
Engineer.
$. .Tlie engineer must attend ~ all fires'arid all inspections. He
should, on the first
day of each month, send to the Superintendent a report;showing the
condition of each,
of the hand and steam engines stationed in Victoria, -the repairs or
alterations effected
during,ahe month, and those which he considers still necessary.
(0-),,FIe_ its erected to ipstrqct, tlie,eugjine drivers and asAs engine
drivers
-a
in; duties, and to supervise their wor~; aI nd,he~ hould bring any
' - d,§obedience pr ,ipatteuxion pp tlteir part at once t6 tbenotice of
the. . _ SpPq3n:tEndent:
aRmvAXcr~ No: 4 of 1s6s
Fire Brigade.
(b.) Ho will tort the boilers of all the steam engines of the Brigade
once every,
six months under hydraulic pressure equal to at least fifty per centum
snore than that used at fires and report having done so, to the Superin-
tendent, in writing.
.Firemen's .Equipment.
9. Firemen will be supplied with the following articles of clouting every
two years
1 'Punic.
I Pair trowsera.
1 Cap or hat.
' 2 Pairs of boots or shoes.
The helmet, belt, Sac., will he supplied as required, and clothing
destroyed at fires:
will, with the approval of tho Superintendent, be replaced free of charge.
Station of Watchmen and Stokers.
10. The watchmen and stokers of the hire Brigade win be stationed and
ernployod
tie follows :-
6 6 Watchmen.
Central Fire Brigade Station, ..... .... ~ k
4 Sto ers.
Harbour Master's Ofl'ICers' Qua rters, .. . . ., .. 2 Watchmen.
West Point Engine Souse, . ... ... .... ..2 Watchmen.
'fast Point Engine )louse, . ,. ... . . , . . .: ..2 Watchmen.
Clock Tower Alarm Bell, . . . . . . . .. . . . . . .. . .2 Watchmen.
Duties.
*CENTRAL STATION.-WATER TOWER.
(ci.) ` No. I. Watchman, ... ... ...... ... ... from G P.M. to 9 p.m.
No. 2.
No. 3.
No. 4.
12 P.- to 3 A.M.
CENTRAL STATION.-ENGINE.HOUSE.
No.' I. Stoker,
No. 2.
No. 3.
No. 4.
No. 5. ~~ . -.
No. I. Watchman,
No. 2.
N 0. 3.
No. 4.
from 6 P.m.' to 12 P.m-
I2 p.m. to 6 A.M
G A.M. to noon.
noon to 6 P.m.
6 P.M. to -2 A.M.,
2 A.M. to 6 A.M.:
6A.m. to 10 A.m.
IO-A.M.tO 2.r.M..
2 P.m. to 6 P.M_
ORDIV'ANCliv No. 4 0v
Fire,<Brigasae.
(c.) Watchmen and stokers, while on duty, must at all times be neatly
dressed
in uniform. The man on the tower will strike the boars and half -hom's
by the ships' bolls. He must keep a strict look- out and ring the alarm
(vide sec. 2), without delay, should lie see a fire in any part of
Victoria.
In doubtful cases, or in the event of fire on board ship, or in British
Rau-lung, lie will call the.: engine driver without delay and be guided
by his instructions.
(d.) The stoker on duty in the Central Station will remain in the engine
roam,
and the watchman will be responsible for the rest .of tho building. ,,
(e.) In the event of fire, the watchman on enJine horse duty will remain
in
charge of tho building while the other watchmen and stokers accompany
the engines and hoso reels to which they a-re'attacbed.
The engine drivers, stokers anti watchmen at the Central Fire Brigade
Station, Harbour Office, East and West Point Engine Houses, will do duty
in tern during the day and night, six hours on and six off. While on
duty, they mast at all times be neatly dressed in uniform. '.LNo engine
driver, stoker or watchman is to absent himself from his station at
any time without the sanction of the officer in charge of the Central
Fire.
Brigade Station.
O,#ences b y Members of the Fire Brigade.
12. Whenever any foreman, ~watcliman, angina driver, or other member of
tho'.Niro
Brigade shall be guilty of 'y-neglect or violation of duty, or -breach
-of discipline, or, shall
be guilty of any disobedience to the regulations framed nnder.section 5
of Ordinance 44,
1868, or of any other misconduct as a mombei`'of the dire Brigade; or
shall -not, upoi,;
ceasing to belong to the Brigade, deliver all,- uniform, accoutrements
and alTointments'
entrusted to him for the performance of his duty, shall on conviction
thereof bef6rea' Police
Magistrate be liable to a fino of'not exceeding twenty-five dollars.
Regulations for the Hongkong Fire Brigade made by the Governor in Council
under
the provisions of Ordinance No. 4 of 1868, on the 8th December, 1882.
1. All officers of the Brigade, except those detailed for duty elsewhere,
are to reside
within the limits of the town of Victoria and are not to absent
themselves except on duty,
without the permission of the Sixporinteridont, and-'any officer becoming
incapacitated by:,
illness or otherwise should report the fact as soon;aspossible to the
Superintendent.
2,-In the absence of the Saperintendent,=the senior Assistant
Superintendent Will,r
command the-Brigade; and in -the absence of the Superintendents, the
foremen will Uke..
charge according to seniority.
All inembers of the Brigade should'xnake themselves acquainted with the
water
:9ystem.: of. Victoria.- They should know the -position of fire plugs in
all the principal
NoTE~2he abodektepnlations are printed although they are probably
superseded by the
Regulations:, of the 8th December 1882.
ORDTNit1NCt `N®: 4 or4 i%a6v.
Are,Bmigude.
'streets, and the tanks from which they also'the -situation
:of wells, and the
,average depth of water at all points accessible to an engine along the
Praya wall. This.
oider applies especially to the officers of the Brigade who axe expected
to know the best
means of supplying an engine with water in any part of the town.
' 4. On the alarm of fire, the bell will be rung without delay. First
with a quick
alarm for two minutes, to be followed by single, double, or treble
strokes to denote they
situation of the fire. One stroke indicating the eastern district,
eastward of Murray
Barracks; two, the central district, from Murray Barracks to the Harbour
Office; and.
three, 'the'westorn' district.
5. On the 'alarm being sounded, firemen and officers who have not
been'told off for
special duty will hasten to the engine house'of their district to assist
in taking the engines
to the fire. But those in charge of hose reels, coal carts, ladders,
supply carts, &c.; must
on no account neglect the duties which they have been specially appointed
to,perform.
6. On the arrival of the engines at the scene of fire, they will be
stationed in such
positions as the senior officer present may direct. In placing them, as
wall as in 1r.1 a
out the hose, great care should be taken to allow as mach space as
possible for the us&:
of any opines that may subsequently arrive on the ground. On potting the
engine as.
close to the water supply as the nature of the ground will admit, the
delivery hose should.
first be connected and run out towards the fire as .directed by the
senior officer present;.
next the suntion hose should ,be carefully screwed home. It mast be
always borne in -
mind that the shorter the'suction hose, the -greater the power obtained,
and -that,:if= carew.
lossly connected, the efficiency of~the engine may be seriously affected.
7. Great care should be taken to rnr) out the hose in as straight; a line
as possiblcs
without twists, sharp turns, or unnecessary bends. The firemen attached
to ~each engine
should, from time to tune, observe the position of the reel or other hose
supply, so that
they may be able to replace promptly any length which may burst or become
.otherwise
damaged.
$,' Firemen in charge of the branch should place themselves in such a
position that.
the stream from the nozzle-may actually strike the burning materials.
Playing at random
from the ground, through a window should be avoided, whenever it is
possible to obtain
a better position, either by entering the premises on fire, ascending the
roof of an adjoin=
_,Ing building, or btheiw-ise.
S. In moving engines, escapes, 'Supply carts, &c., great care should be
taken not t~
injure the hose of other brigades.
10. Without the permission of one of the Superintendents, no foreman or
other
member of the Biigade is to receive any refreshment whatever, while on
duty, except,
that which, when necessary, will be supplied free of cost by the
Government.
.11.. 9L1 members of the Brigade ,are strictly prohibited from smoking
while on duty
,rM.,fl.res or inspections. But men remaining owwatch after a fire has
been subdued, way
atr the discretion of the senior. officer present be. allowed to smpke
when not actively
engaged.
'Vat)INANCE2 . N
, ov 4 of M6'3.
Fire Brigade.-,
12. Members of the Brigade are not to receive orders from any one except.
their own
officers. They should always be respectful towards those with whom they
are brought
in contact, and should afford every assistance in their power to members
of other brigades.
13. As the reputation of the Brigade depends in a great measure upon the
behaviour
of the firemen, any case of incivility,will be considered to disqualify
thaw for the pos t.
14. In out-stations, where there are no officers of the Brigade, the
Police Inspector
will take charge of the engine in the event of fire. At other times, the
care of the
engine and other fire brigade material will rest with the fireman, who
will see. that the
rules here laid down for working the engines are observed. In the eastern
and western
districts of Victoria., the senior firemen will have charge of the
engines and other fire
brigade equipment.
115; Firemen will be supplied with the following articles of clothing
every two
years :--
I Tunic.
I Pair trowsers.
1 Cap or hat.
2 Pairs boots or shoos.
The helmet, belt, &c., will bo supplied as required, and clothing damaged
or destroyed
at fires will, with the approval of the Superintendent, be replaced free
of charge.
Foremen and Assistant Foremen.
18, h'oremon.and assistant foremen should be able to instruct those and®r
.Lhmm in
%ll matters relating tar their duty, su<sh: as connecting, diaconnoating
and runeing, ou.t TSa';
and'also as to the situation of wells, ,fire plugs and other sources- of
waterSupply..
i, It- is their duty to ascertain and report to the Superintendent.
thwaause of fire
in eaeli ease. ,
ii. They should observe the conduct of- the officers and men under them
and,
report any irregularity on their part or guy infringement of the depart-
mental regulations without delay to the Superintendent.
iii. On the alarm of fire if they have not been detailed for special duty
they
will, at once proceed with the pioneers and carafullg eNamino tlaae burn-
ing premises and the surrounding buildings, They should V also obtain
all possible information regarding the water supply. and the different
approaches to the fire, with a view to laying the hose,. and employing
the engine in the most effective manner. In placing the engine they -
should see that the directions _giveri in rule 6 are strictly observed.
They should use every means in their power to exclude all avoidable'
currents of air from the fire and to ascertain whether there are any
communications with the adjoining houses either by the roof,, gable or
otherwise.
im::The;y should see=that the men at the branches are placed in the best
poasi-
' blew position and that the directions contained in rule & are carried out
as well as circumatances:will admit.
OR:=DTNANCE -. No: 4 of 18G8:
Fire Brigade.
v. In the absence of the Superintendent and his assistant they should see
that -
a safe retreat is kept open for the branchmen and see that those engaged
with manual engines are not exposed to unnecessary danger.
Engineer.
1'/. The engineer will attend all,fixes, and all inspections of engines
or machinery:
tie should, on the first day of each month, send to the Superintendent a
report, showing
the condition of each of the hand, and steam engines stationed in
Victoria, the repairs or
alterations effected during the month, and those which ho considers still
necessary.
i. He is expected to instruct the engine drivers and assistant engine
drivers in
their duties, and to supervise their work; and be should bring any dis-
obedience or inattention on 'their part at once to the notice of the
Superintendent.
. 18. This officer's ,duty is to'aid the chief engineer in his various
duties, to instruct
the engine drivers, assistant engine drivers, watchmen and stokers in
their work and'tii.
repair anti keep in order all the material of the Brigade.
will test the
ii. Ile boilers of all the steam engines of the Brigade once every
six months under hydraulic pressure equal to fifty per centum morn than
that used at fires, and report having done so to the Superintendent, in
writing.
Assistant Engineer.
i: Ho will have charge of the stores in the Central Station and keep a
record-
of all articles received and expended, giving the dates on which they.
were received into or issued out of stock.
ii. He will furnish a monthly return of all serviceable and unserviceable
articles
in store to the Superintendent.
iii. Ho will at least once a month visit the different -engine houses and
hose
stations in Victoria, and the out-stations, and see that each engine is
properly equipped, and that hose and other supplies are properly looked
after by those in charge.
After fixes and inspections he should see that all hose has been properly
washed and dried before it is put on the reels, and that damaged lengths
are set aside for repair:
He will arrange the duties .of men in charge of coal'carts, hose
reels,.supply
carts, ladders and escapes at the Central Station, and see that these
appliances are at all times properly equipped and.xaady for;use, and that
they, .together with a sufficient supply of hose and other material,
accompany the ongiyes to.a.fixe.
nRDi1'I~TCE No.' 4 of 1-865:.
Tire Brigade.
19, When not required for their regular duty, engine drivers and
assistant engine
drivers will be employed in such manner as the assistant engineer, with
the sanction of
the Superintendent, may direct.
i. On hearing the alarm, they will at once light lire, unless they receive
orders
to the contrary from the assistant engineer.
ii. When on duty with engines at fires or inspections, they will see that
the
directions regarding connecting delivery for suction hose laid down in
rule 6 are strictly observed. The engine driver will be held responsible
that the different joints of the suction hose are firmly screwed hem©. x
iii. When told off to take charge of a coal cart, hose reel, supply cart,
ladder or
escape, they will be liable to dismissal if it is not at all times ready
for
rise or if they fail to take it with the engines to a fire. They will also
be held responsible for any infringement of rule 9.
iv. They' are to obey the orders of the engineer and his assistant and
are on no
account to disconnect any portion of the machinery -without his per-
mission, unless on an emergency they bo ordered to do so by one of the
Superintendents.
Engine Drivers and Assistant Engine Drivers.
Stokers and TYktclamen.
20. Stokers, when not required for their ordinary work, will perform the
duty of:
watchmen in such manner as the Superintendent may from time to time
direct. : Water . ~.EX,
',
nazi and stokers, while'on duty, mast be neatly dressed in -urizforzn -
The ritau- on dtat~' -: ^
onthe tower of the Central Station will strike the 'hours. and half hours-
by Abe
hells. Ho must keep a strict look out and ring- the alarm (see, rule 4)t'
wxtho ut` delay.v ' , ~;
should ho see a fire in any part of Victoria. In ,doub tful cases .or in
the event of a fire -on
board ship or in British Kowloon, he will at once caIL the senior
officer., present _ an& be
guided by his instructions.
i. The stoker on duty, in the Central Station will remain ln' the' engine
room
and the watchman will be responsible for the rest of, the building.
ii. In the event of fire, the watchman on the engine room duty 'will
remain in.
charge of the building, while the other watchmen and stokers-accompany
the engines, hose reels, &c., to which they, are attached to the fire
iii. Engine drivers, stokers, and watchmen at the different ermine
houses, file- 'v
alarms; and, stations -wi.ll keep watch in such manner as the Supertn
teadent, may, from time to time direct; while on ditty that' must at x,11
times be neatly dressed in uniform. No engine driver, stoker or 'watch _:
man is .to absent himself at any time without the sanction of
the.;offlcex,.-,,
in charge 'of the Central Fire Brigade Station.
2i.: Every member o£. the Brigade; on being
required`thereto,slaaTl:ileliver-up alk
ttnifoxm;aecoutrements and appointments entrusted to him for
the-:perforyance of hi&.
Fire Brigade.
No. 4 of 1868.
22. Whenever any foxeman,.fireman, engine driver, or other member of the Brigade
shall be guilty of any disobedience of regulations .framed under section 5 of Ordinance 4
of 1868, he shall, on conviction thereof before a Police Magistrate, be liable to a fine of
not exceeding twenty-five dollars.
Note -- For superseded regulations :
of the 18th February, 1876, see Gazette of the 19th of the same month.
-of ,the 5th October, 1880, see Gazette of the 11th December, 1880.
991
Tilte.
[See Ord. No. 23 of 1888.]
Preamble.
Short title.
Governor to select a force in relation to fires.
Constitution of Fire Brigade.
Salaries, &c. and gratuities of Fire Brigade, &c.
992
Power to make regulations for Fire Brigade.
As to powers of Fire Brigade.
Powers of Superintendent of Police under Ordinance No. 9 of 1857 transferred to Superintendent of Fire Brigade.
Fire Brigade rate to be imposed.
993
Ordinances to be construed together.
Offences how triable.
Commencement of Ordinance.
994
995
1002
Abstract
991
Tilte.
[See Ord. No. 23 of 1888.]
Preamble.
Short title.
Governor to select a force in relation to fires.
Constitution of Fire Brigade.
Salaries, &c. and gratuities of Fire Brigade, &c.
992
Power to make regulations for Fire Brigade.
As to powers of Fire Brigade.
Powers of Superintendent of Police under Ordinance No. 9 of 1857 transferred to Superintendent of Fire Brigade.
Fire Brigade rate to be imposed.
993
Ordinances to be construed together.
Offences how triable.
Commencement of Ordinance.
994
995
1002
Tilte.
[See Ord. No. 23 of 1888.]
Preamble.
Short title.
Governor to select a force in relation to fires.
Constitution of Fire Brigade.
Salaries, &c. and gratuities of Fire Brigade, &c.
992
Power to make regulations for Fire Brigade.
As to powers of Fire Brigade.
Powers of Superintendent of Police under Ordinance No. 9 of 1857 transferred to Superintendent of Fire Brigade.
Fire Brigade rate to be imposed.
993
Ordinances to be construed together.
Offences how triable.
Commencement of Ordinance.
994
995
1002
Identifier
https://oelawhk.lib.hku.hk/items/show/246
Edition
1890
Volume
v2
Cap / Ordinance No.
No. 4 of 1868
Number of Pages
12
Files
Collection
Historical Laws of Hong Kong Online
Citation
“HONGKONG FIRE BRIGADE ORDINANCE, 1868,” Historical Laws of Hong Kong Online, accessed June 8, 2025, https://oelawhk.lib.hku.hk/items/show/246.
