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35
D(5)o Eradication of Bed Bugs
Vermin infestations continued to decrease and the number
of dwellings treated during the year was as follows:—
Privately owned houses 4
Corporation houses 4
Occupiers are encouraged to reveal promptly any signs
of infestation so that the menace can be eradicated in its
initial stages.
D(5)p Heating Appliances (Fireguards) Act 1952
and Regulations 1953
Almost without exception, heating appliances sold in
shops have a guarantee attached which declares that the
fitments comply with the safety requirements of the above
Act and Regulations. With a view of ensuring that gas and
electric appliances do comply, however, it is the practice of
the Department to inspect fitments exposed for sale in shops
and apply the appropriate probe test.
During the year, the test in question was applied to 176
fitments, when it was found that all were satisfactory.
Special attention was devoted to appliances found to be
on sale at second-hand establishments.
Domestic oil heaters still continue to be popular with
the public generally, and of the 3,500,000 in use in this country,
it would be difficult to asses the proportion of such appliances,
particularly those of foreign origin, which were
bought before 1960, and not modified to compliance with
British Standard 3300.
In the best safety interests, therefore, it is considered
that all owners of the oil heaters referred to who are in doubt,
should have the fitments checked by their retailers.
D(5)q Mosquito Control
Whilst the whole of the river frontage has been kept
under review, particular attention has been paid to the many
ditches which intersect the Belvedere and Abbey Wood marsh
area and outfall to the River Thames. In addition to the
possible breeding grounds which are apparent in the marsh
area, there is always the possibility of air-borne invasion of
mosquitoes from home-bound shipping. It is for this reason
that all potential breeding and resting places are thoroughly
dosed with D.D.T. and Lindane as a result of which good
control was maintained during the year, and no complaints
were received.