To the editor:

We in Lawrence are fortunate to have a high level of public services available to us, which is certainly true of fire/emergency medical services. Good public service depends on many variables. National standards are one, but these guidelines must be adapted to the specific needs of individual communities as demonstrated by the varied staffing levels in the Kansas City metro. Employee safety cannot be compromised. Employee safety depends on providing the most appropriate and best equipment and tools with a strong commitment to employee training.

Over 20 years ago, Lawrence required Greek Houses to retrofit with sprinkler systems after several serious fires. Since that time, they have not had any major fires. Instead of planning to build two new fire stations, why not consider requiring fire sprinklers in new residential structures? With those proposed funds, we could provide grants to affordable housing units and existing structures to retrofit. One complaint about residential sprinkler systems is that they add to building cost. Electrical and plumbing codes also add to building cost, but they are offset by enhanced public safety.

I commend city staff for their review and support the recommendation on staffing in fire/emergency medical services. I encourage staff in fire-medical services to develop innovative ways to continue their high level of service in a cost-effective manner.

Ray Hummert,

Lawrence