A Novel Fire Alarm.
A novel system of fire alarm signals by rocket bombs has been established in the suburban districts of San Francisco to enable the remote engine houses quickly to summon assistance from the city forces in case of great emergency. A bomb, something like a rocket, is thrown 300 feet straight upward from a mortar, where it bursts, making a brilliant white light and a very loud explosion. At the trials of the system a week or so ago all San Francisco was excited and alarmed, fearing dynamiters were at work. The system is arranged so that the precise locality where aid is needed is made known.