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New NHFD Plan is Efficient, Not Fancy
Dear Editor:
As a former member of the FDNY and resident of NYC, I had grown accustomed to a hydrant on every corner and a fire station every 10 to 15 blocks. It's a level of comfort we cannot afford here. Let's face it, a paid fire department and a new hydrant system would be quite costly and we would still need to fix the North Highlands Fire Station. The high price tag for this project has led many taxpayers to question some of the planned improvements.
Since the 1980's every firehouse in NYC has been retrofitted with a mechanical ventilator system to remove the toxic fumes from the workplace. I suspect this was OSHA mandated. In addition, existing kitchens, bathrooms, lighting and windows were replaced with new energy-efficient products for obvious reasons. Most firehouses have undergone major structural renovations at the basement level to support the newer and heavier equipment. You would be hardpressed to find a firehouse anywhere without a fitness/training room. Firefighters are encouraged to stay fit and healthy. A higher rate of cancers, lung diseases and heart problems is well documented in this profession.
As a former active member of the NHFD, I can personally attest to the fact that they are knowledgeable, well trained and extremely dedicated. They respond to floods, fallen trees, downed wires, fuel spills, lost hikers, and much more, as well as fires.
No one ever plans these incidents, but these men and women plan for them. If you ever need them, you will be very happy to see them arrive. They respond 24/7, 365 days a year on their own time to help you! They work when it's 10 degrees and when it's 110 degrees. They leave their warm beds, they leave their hot meals, they leave their own families to come and help you and yours. And now they ask you to help them.
Their community service is well-known to the Boy Scouts, the Girl Scouts and the Little League. They provide fire safety awareness and education to businesses, homeowners and schools. We vote there, donate blood there and can even visit Santa there. And, in true firehouse tradition, it is a safe haven and approved shelter.
I, too, thought the project cost was high. The problem is that what exists now is a mess. The committee has reconvened twice with reductions of more than 14% each time. I have reviewed the new plan and it appears to be far more functional than fancy. The plan allows them to remain in operation while rebuilding. It provides a safe, efficient, workplace in a comfortable setting, for both firefighters and the community.
They are asking for your support. Please vote Yes on August 14, 2007.
Woody Ledwith
Cold Spring
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