The lighting is at present by kerosene oil lamps, and for an institution where there are no adequate means to fight fire— kerosene oil is a dangerous illuminant. Chemical fire-extinguishers are needed in all of the buildings and these should be put in as soon as possible. At the time of inspection the food supply was found abundant and well cooked. HENRY TOWNSEND, Superintendent. The almshouse of Yates county, the last in the district to be passed in review, is also the smallest. It has a capacity of 75 inmates and the estimated value of the buildings is $25.000. The main building is of concrete, three stories high, with a base ment. At the time of inspection the building was clean, the walls well painted and all was found in good repair. Only a few minor repairs have been made recently and none are in contemplation. Money has been appropriated to purchase new iron beds for the dormitories. The building is lighted by kerosene oil lamps and the water supply is drawn from wells and cisterns. The gasoline engine which operates the laundry furnishes power for the pumping. The means of escape in event of fire are not adequate. There are three inside stairways, but outside fire-escapes are needed, and as another measure of protection liquid chemical fire-extinguishers should be supplied. This almshouse has a small dairy, and the products are used for the inmates, so that they are supplied with milk and butter. The other food is generally ample and the inmates seem to be contented. One improvement which should be made to this institution is a better provision for the sick. A small building, to be used exclusively for the sick, should be added to the group. |