Subscribe now

Research first, then write

The Spokesman-Review

I am writing in response to “Rethink medical response” (Letters, April 19). I strongly encourage anyone considering writing a letter to do a bit of research on the topic before putting pen to paper. Since 1978 the city of Spokane has closed four fire stations, and it has cut over 50 Fire Department positions in the last two years. Reducing the number of personnel will only increase response times and limit service.

Who will be called upon to respond when the few remaining crews are busy on other emergencies?

Most stations in the city contain one apparatus manned by three firefighters. Firefighters are highly trained individuals, not just in fire suppression but a multitude of emergency situations, and more times than not arrive on scene before ambulance crews. I’m sure anyone in need of aid would want the fastest, most knowledgeable crews responding, regardless of the size of their boots or the vehicle they drove.

Rick Pennington

Spokane Valley

Letters policy

The Spokesman-Review invites original letters on local topics of public interest. Your letter must adhere to the following rules:

  • No more than 250 words
  • We reserve the right to reject letters that are not factually correct, racist or are written with malice.
  • We cannot accept more than one letter a month from the same writer.
  • With each letter, include your daytime phone number and street address.
  • The Spokesman-Review retains the nonexclusive right to archive and re-publish any material submitted for publication.

Unfortunately, we don’t have space to publish all letters received, nor are we able to acknowledge their receipt. (Learn more.)

Submit letters using any of the following:

Our online form
Submit your letter here
Mail
Letters to the Editor
The Spokesman-Review
999 W. Riverside Ave.
Spokane, WA 99201
Email
editor@spokesman.com
Fax
(509) 459-3815
Phone
(509) 459-5430

Read more about how we crafted our Letters to the Editor policy