Maxims and Instructions for the Boiler Room / Useful to Engineers, Firemen & Mechanics; Relating to Steam Generators, Pumps, Appliances, Steam Heating, Practical Plumbing, etc.

by N. Hawkins

27. Don’t fail to open the doors of the furnace and start the pump when the pressure is increased beyond the amount allowed, but

28. Don’t fail to draw the fires when there is danger from the water having fallen too low.

29. Don’t fail to check the fire—if too hot to draw, do it with fresh coal, damp ashes, clinkers or soil; and

30. Don’t fail to open the doors of the furnace and close the ash-pit doors at the time the fire is checked— and

31. Don’t decrease the steam pressure by feeding in water or suddenly blowing off steam, and

32. Don’t touch the safety-valve, even if it be opened or closed, and

33. Don’t change the feed apparatus if it is working, or the throttle-valve be open; let them both remain as they are for a short time, and

34. Don’t fail to change them very cautiously and slowly when you close them, and

35. Don’t fail to be very cool and brave while resolute in observing these last seven “Don’ts.”