THE GLOBE-REPUBLICAN — SEPTEMBER 24, 1903
The rapid increase in the number of fatalities from fires in London has attracted the attention of inventors to the great problem of saving life endangered by fire and one result is the invention of a large motor car which carries a series of platforms with mechanical means for raising them to a great height.
In use the machine would he swiftly driven to a burning house and at once extended so that the platforms are on a level with the upper windows. The occupants whose escape by the staircase has been cut off by the flames can then step from the windows directly on to these firm, elevated tables, and can easily descend to the ground by means of the light steel ladders.
One of the most novel features of the invention is the clever device by which the platforms are extended lengthways to the width of the house on fire, so that exit is easy from any window.
In addition to forming an escape the engine is provided with a pumping arrangement, and from the various balconies the firemen would be able to direct streams of water into the rooms far more effectually than they would from the street level.
From the high platforms the firemen would, where necessary, be able with the greatest ease to enter through the windows, dragging the hose after them, thus quickly reaching the real seat of the fire, and bringing all their resources to bear upon it.
From—The Globe-Republican. (Dodge City, Kan.), 24 Sept. 1903. Chronicling America: Historic American Newspapers. Lib. of Congress.
