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Show PRACTICE FIRE PREVENTION NOW The anthracite coal famine brings new hazards not realized by the public, says W. E. Mallalicu, of National Board of Fire Underwriters. Under-writers. "See that smoke pipes and flues are thoroughly cleaned. Soft coal produces more flame, gas, and soot which cause chimney fires. Radiated heat from smoke pipe leading to chimney is also greater than with anthracite. Shield woodwork near furnaces, stoves, and smoke pipes with asbestos and sheet metal. Soft coal requires more air for proper consumption. It is subject to spontaneous spontan-eous ignition and should never be piled near furnace nor against wall of wooden bin. "Oil burning equipments will be installed by many householders household-ers and should be safeguarded in accordance with regulations issued by National Board of Fire Underwriters. Gravity fed systems involve greater hazards than where fuel oil supply is delivered by suction to burner from underground tank. "Always fill portable oil stoves in daylight and away from fires. Keep oil stoves, electric and gas heaters away from curtains, walls, furniture and inflammable furnishings. The portability of such devices de-vices increases their danger. Weak spring catches on. oil stoves cause them to fall open when carried, with consequent probability of fire. Explosions are caused by defective wicks which do not fill wick tube. Wick and burner should occasionally be boiled in a strong solution of oda and carefully dried, thus insuring better light and safety of operation. op-eration. When not in use, electric heaters and cooking utensils should be disconnected at the socket. "Coal shortage is likely to result in freezing of many sprinkling systems in business establishments, and consequently they should receive re-ceive special attention." While foregoing warnings are sent out particularly for anthracite anthra-cite districts, the majority of them apply with equal force to every home. Practice fire prevention, now. |