Putnam patriot., 1917-11-02
From the Editors Desk

From the Editors Desk
 For the past two weeks the PATRIOT has given prominence to the news thnt the citizens will in all probability be called upon in the very near future io express, by ballot, their opinions as to whether or not it Is hn economical measure to spend approximately 5000 fdr pump to be attached to motor driven fire truck No. 1.
 -IAll expenditures of money should receive careful consideration and 1t will doubtless be so in this instance l [ would seem that the statements that tAere Is absolutely no water pressure i'd some of the high points of the city aud that at other points is found lack of sufficient water pressure would in themselves convince any fair mind ed person that such an expenditure is nbt only warranted but imperative.
 Perhaps, as lis often said, there Is selfish streak in every individual, and that unless this matter touches us di rectly we may remain unconcerned and let the fellow directly concerned do the worrying. While it is to be hoped that this selfish streak may be overcome for the good of all it should be pointed out that, not only nre dwell lers on these high points, who have ii. tie or no protection, concerned, but that the whole city is sleeping over a cpnflagration that may burst forth at any moment unless better water pres sure Is assured.
 We have been told by our own ofiici- sls, and by expert hydraulic engineers, that the city has expanded to such an extent that the demand on the present water system has become so great that only with the greatest difficulty can the city's present needs be supplied. The water commissioners ,were autho- rlzed to employ an engineer to make survey of the present system and the engineer reported that larger mains, reservoirs, etc, were needed, with an attendant outlay of Sl00,000 or more. This Is large smount of money for this city to consider and so far AS has appeared nothing has been done to. wards carrying out the recommenda- lions of the engineer
 With such situation prevailing in the city 1t IS readily to be seen that not only are the high points without sufficient protection but that the whole city is effected on account of this ,lack of means to supply the city's family consumption and nt the same tune have an adequate reserve to furnish sufficient pressure in case of lire.
 This lack of pressure has teen noted al other than the high points of the city At several fires the department was handicapped for lack of water and, although il can only be guessed al, 1t Is n safe guess that property value to much greater amount than the appro priaiion asked for has been destroyed on account Of lack of water, to say nothing of the loss to k. NJ. N heaton in afie recent fire on Oak Hill.
 The situation is really an alarming one and should be so considered by the voters and taxpayers when they are privileged 10 decide the question of making an appropriation that will provide the city with sufficient water pressure 10 assure the tire department chance 10 work.
 The fire undetwriters have added lheir testimony to that Of the officials mended a pump attachment to our fire apparatus as measure of safety. It has been intimated that unless something of the kind Is done insur. possibility of an increase. On the other hand il Is said that such step may tend to reduce insurance rates.
 It hardly seems that an argument against providing assured water pres sure can be forthcoming. Without il the property in the city is at all times in danger. Losses have already been incurred. With IL The department can put up a fight at least and mol have to stand idly by and watch the flames consume buildings and person al property without being able to re- sist it. And this can be done for the small outlay Of sa5o0.
 The citizens have been generous in voting other appropriations and II would seem that when the opportani- ty offers they will, without the least hesitation, vote the necessary money 10 protect our business blocks land homes from fire.