Fighting Flames

This is a second-hand copy of the book Fighting Flames by Russell W. Kirkby. It is hardcover with a dust jacket.

From the inside flap:

TOWN OF BLAZES... Such a garish slogan fires the imagination, leaving an indelible imprint on an ex- tensive canvas of real factual drama... Such a New Zealand-wide reputation with which Hastings was aptly labelled last century, has to a large extent stubbornly clung to Hawke's Bay's marketing centre of fruit and wool growing. Since the grim pioneering days of devastating fires in Heretaunga Street, the city has continued to be subjected to a series of multi-million dollar blazes in more recent times.

But today there's a major difference. Where the small unit of firemen 100 years back were ill- equipped and poorly treated with little reward, today's firefighters thrive on good conditions with good pay and the use of the most sophisticated scientific appliances and apparatus. Essentially though, they need to be fully qualified.

On a wide spectrum, this book covers the historic progress of the Hastings Fire Brigade from its founding in 1886 over its first century. It tells of the early struggles and turbulent times, of squabbles and frustrations; of the joyous advent of the celebrated steam engine and its day of renown, fighting a stubborn ship fire off Napier; it tells of an exception- ally massive Hastings blaze in 1907, when pumping operations were foiled by the Railways Department; of the brigade's colourful characters; it gives a vivid description of the trials of the 1931 Hawke's Bay earthquake in which the fire station was wrecked. Interspersed touches on technology through an exciting century enhance the interest.

Uniquely, the book includes a chapter featuring something of the part womanfolk have played in the lives of their firemen, culminating in the acceptance of modern fire brigade reform. Inspired by dynamic leadership, the Hastings brigade ultimately emerged with the reputation of being the best equipped, best trained and most dedicated brigade in the New Zealand Fire Service.

A comprehensive selection of illustrations compliments this fulfilling historic saga.

Condition: this is a used book. Title page contains a number of signatures and messages in blue ink. Looks like the book was once a going away present. Dust jacket has some nicks and worn around the edges. Now protected by a non-adhesive PVC cover. This can be removed easily with no damage to the book. It just keeps the dust jacket safe. Black and white photos throughout the book.

Publisher: Hastings Fire Brigade
Published Year: 1986
Pages: 337
Book Condition: used book (good)
Jacket Condition: fair