1992.

Recently-released statistics revealed that a total of 81 emergency assistance calls -- including 61 for fires and 20 for special services, were received compared to a total of 71 calls in April of the previous year.

The estimated financial loss for last month was $37,300.

But, the Service noted, this figure and the number of special services did not include all the assistance provided and losses incurred in last month's tornado in Somerset.

"The number of special services recorded during the month of April is misleading due to the fact that only two calls requesting assistance were received as a result of the tornado in the Bob's Valley/Scott's Hill area,'' Chief Fire Officer Mr. Reginald Rawlins said.

"However, upon arrival of the first responding appliance it was evident that the damage was widespread, involving numerous properties and additional manpower and supplies were dispatched to the area.

"In all, the Service along with the Bermuda Regiment and local residents, rendered assistance in covering some 18 properties that had sustained structural damage.'' Other special services the Fire Service attended last month included a boat in danger of sinking resulting in a loss of about $5,000, a gasoline leak, two road traffic accidents and six reports of flooding.

The remaining financial loss for the month included two car fires and a cycle fire totalling a combined loss of $26,350, and $5,450 worth of damage due to structural fires.