About Lawrence’s fire companies

Joseph M. Dlabik Sr. of Lawrence
To the editor:
   In response to Ms. Salt-Gillispie’s letter published Oct. 16:
   First things first, there are three fire companies in Lawrence: Slackwood – Station 21, Lawrence Road – Station 22 and Lawrenceville – Station 23.
   Next, although the “plan” was discussed with the chiefs and presidents of the fire companies, only Slackwood had met as a group with the township manager prior to the Lawrence Ledger articles.
   ”Transparency in government”? Is this a new catch phrase? A buzzword? It’s new to me. I know, it’s an oxymoron. So much for the sarcasm.
   Thank you for appreciating the volunteers and for recognizing the very fact that we are volunteers. So many residents think we are a paid, tax funded department.
   As for March’s “Back Talk” article in The Trentonian regarding the multi-vehicle fire, I responded in writing, by e-mail, in follow-up phone calls to the editor only to have it completely ignored. My wife addressed the issue before Lawrence Township Council and I wrote a written response — along with a copy of my signed editorial — to the township manager.
   The next incident you commented on, was the May fire at 180 Franklin Corner Road, where two of our members were injured. It was reported as a multi-family dwelling with entrapment. An aggressive attack on a fire is inherently hazardous and dangerous. One injury was burns to the wrist (fire-rated gloves were not an issue) The other injury was due to a partial ceiling collapse. Both men have recovered completely and are actively serving the community!
   Just because it doesn’t appear in the news, does not mean things don’t happen. Incidents are critiqued, investigations are done — on many levels — and ideas and solutions are garnered. We learn and improve from our experiences.
   I can only wonder what spin council has on the articles; if a fair and objective presentation has been presented to them. One that is fair to the residents of Lawrence and its volunteers!
   You ask for insight to our “volunteer” organizations, but only address the fire companies. Obviously, you have an ulterior motive, you’re not practicing “transparency.” The best way to gain insight is to become an insider. We’d love to have you volunteer.
Joseph M. Dlabik, Sr.
Lawrence