WATER SUPPLY AND OTHER MEANS OF FIGHTING FIRE. 55 
is likely to fail through rupture of the steel mains, it is highly 
desirable to have an independent supply, as from an artesian well, 
with the necessary pumps and service pipe. 
In the matter of fireproofing, certain definite recommendations may 
be deduced from the San Francisco conflagration, as follows : 
1. Exterior openings should be protected by the use of metal 
frames or metal-covered frames with wire glass, or exterior iron 
shutters or interior metal-covered shutters, or both exterior and 
interior shutters. 
2. The structural members, especially the columns, should be better 
protected, preferably with solid concrete; they may be filled with 
brick and covered with terra cotta or with a double layer of cement- 
plastered metal lath, with an air space between. 
3. There should be a better type of partition, the present plastered 
metal lath or hollow terra-cotta tile being inadequate. Keenforced- 
concrete partitions are much more efficient. 
4. All combustible trim should be eliminated. The fire loss from 
this item is high, and it should be so designed as to be replaced readily 
and cheaply. 
5. Attic floors and roofs should be designed to resist fire. In many 
buildings the roof members were not fireproofed and their failure 
caused great damage. 
6. Buildings should be so arranged that the fire could be confined 
to a single room. 
WATER SUPPLY AND OTHER METHODS OF FIGHTING FIRE. 
In connection with the matter of the fireproof construction of 
buildings above referred to, certain suggestions may be made in 
regard to private and public facilities for fighting fire, as follows : 
1. An independent water supply and other facilities for fighting 
the fire from either within or without should be provided. 
2. Another very important problem, at least so far as San Fran- 
cisco is concerned, is that of the public water supply. The failure 
of a gridiron system of cast-iron pipes seriously cripples a water 
supply, no matter how large may be the storage. It is also evident 
that greater care must be exercised in the laying of these mains, 
especially in filled ground or alluvial soil, where failures are likely 
to occur. A system of by-passes should be provided, so arranged as 
to permit the cutting out of portions which are broken or otherwise 
damaged, and some system should be installed for quick repairs under 
emergency conditions. 
3. A high-pressure service operated from the bay, using salt 
water, would also be an essential feature. This service might neces- 
sitate a floating pumping station, as recommended by the National 
Board of Fire Underwriters. 
