Regarding the article, “Everett Fire Department efficiency study draws fire”: I was a member of the Everett Fire Department for 31 years and during that time was stationed all over the city. Station No. 5 is in a perfect location to serve its large senior population, a substantial part of the north and south lanes of I-5, and the community of Lowell. Station No. 4 serves the large area of Glenwood and Mukilteo Boulevard. We saved numerous lives in these two areas, comforted, stabilized and transported our patients to safety.
Fire engines extinguish fires and ladder trucks rescue, ventilate roofs and carry all the necessary tools to remove people from wrecked automobiles. They also can flow a master stream and ladder buildings, etc. Many times fire apparatus can arrive before an out-of-position two-person medic unit. There are three firefighters on an engine as well as three on a ladder truck. They often need all this help on the scene to achieve a successful outcome. Everett has a large population to care for, a railroad that moves hazardous materials, large ships and various industries. Many times we were stretched thin; much could go wrong and often did on our watch. To remove two vital fire stations would create an unsafe situation for the residents of Everett.
Dennis Somerville
Arlington
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