Detroit R L Polk City Directory 1870 - JewishGen KehilaLinks

DIRECTIONS AND UVSTRUCTXOXIS FOR 'I'TELEGRAPB FIRE ALARMS
IN THE RECENT RECONSTRUCTION OF THE LINE,
[After the directions for operating the Fire Alarm Telegraph, found on page 36 of this
Directory were printed, the fire Commissioners adopted a new system of telegraphy, dif-
fering materially from that before in use, and of course requiring different manipulation.
Below we give the rules for working the new telegraph. A complete list of the nevr
boxes and locations may be found on page 36.)
A key will be left with the occupant of a building near each Alarm Box, and it will
be designated on the box where the same may be found. The officers and men of the
Police Department will also possess a key.
The following directions will be observed when a fire is discovered :
I. Go to t.he nearest box and open the door, pull the hook down as far as you can,
(firmly without jerking, j and then let it slide back ; remove the key and close the door.
II. If you do not immediately hear the number of the box struck upon the small bell
within, or upon the tower bells, go to the next nearwt box to the fire and repeat the op-
eration.
111. If upon going to a box to give an alarm, you hear the small bell inside ringing
(which is an indication that an alarm is being sent over the lines), do not open the box
until it has done ringing. In a11 such cases count the signal being sounded, and be cer-
tain that it is not for the same fire.
Key holders are cautioned-
1. To not open the box except in case of fire.
2. To not give alarm until certain of a fire.
3. To not give an alarm for a fire seen at a distance.
4. . To pull down the hook but once in giving an alarm.
5. To be sure, after giving an alarm, that the door is securely closed before leaving
the box.
6. To not let the key go out of their possession, except when demanded by proper
authority.