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mentioned that cesspools have mostly been eradicated, but they
are now and then still found. A great deal of attention has
been given for several years past to securing the inhabitants
improved closet accommodation, i.e., structures better fitted,
more cleanly, and with proper water supply. 510 closets were
thus cleansed and repaired, and water supply was restored or
newly laid on in 571 closets.
Much care has been taken to prevent sewage gases
penetrating basement rooms and sleeping chambers ; and thus
in 275 premises, the waste pipes of kitchen sinks were securely
trapped, or their connection with the drain entirely cut off, and
rain-water pipes have also been disconnected from the drains
in 400 premises, to prevent sewer gas entering bedrooms.
The yards of 416 premises have been paved to prevent
dampness in houses, for it is indispensable for health to keep
the earth under and around dwellings dry and sweet; for
dryness promotes porousness and freshness, and by enabling
air to circulate through the surface of the earth, disinfects it,
by oxidation, and destroys any organic products that might
accumulate and become poisonous.
The labour and judgment bestowed on the inspection
of premises, and in ascertaining in what way their
arrangements are dangerous to health, is small compared
with the energy and experience that has been given, and which
must be given, day by day, to ensure that such dangerous
conditions are removed. The inspection for that end must be
searching and uncompromising, to prevent weak superficial
work being done and passed by as sufficient; and to prevent
worthless materials being used, which the inexperienced might
allow, but which the trained mind of the sanitary officer cannot
pass; for experience has shown that the conditions in such
cases return and become more dangerous and troublesome
than before.