The Engine House Was Locked—and the Janitor Was at Church

FIRE ALARMS.—There were two alarms of fire in this city on Sunday, one about 11 a.m. and the other about 1 p.m. In both cases a rush was made for the engine house, which was found to be locked and the janitor off at church or some other place, with the key in his pocket. Frank Matthias, councilman from the —th Ward, was an eye-witness to this fact. Both these fires were in the Chinese portion of the town, where the spread was easily effected but for the activity of bystanders. The Department needs a total reorganization and can never be efficient till that change is made. To begin with, there should be a Hook and Ladder Company, entirely separate from the Engine and Hose Company. This company should be stationed somewhere about Madison Street, so that in the event of a fire in the north end it could get there ahead of the engine. In places where there is limited supply of water, as at the Robbins mansion last week, this company could be far more effective than an engine company. Another thing is necessary—to remind members of the company that, when they go to the fires, it should be with the engine-rope in their hands; and not running ahead on their own hook. Another suggestion is that if ever the city gets a chance to sell this engine, to let it go and buy one with a wooden box. Hunneman's engines are very good for level towns like Salem, Albany, Sacramento and Stockton, but wretched things for side-hill towns like Seattle or Steilacoom.