Seattle Sun Newspaper - Vol. 6, Issue 11, November 2002

Copyright 2002 Jane Lotter. Do not use without permission.

JANE EXPLAINS:

Taking the heat

BY JANE LOTTER

As you probably know, Mayor Nickels' recent budget proposal includes beefing up his office staff while cutting 31 fire fighter positions, as well as doing away with certain fire and rescue services.

North Seattle would be particularly affected: Among the possible cuts are the elimination of an aid car from Station 17 in the University District and the decommissioning of Engine 16 in the Green Lake neighborhood.

If Engine 16 is mothballed, there will be NO fire truck at Green Lake. None, zip, nada. Just a half-empty fire station sheltering a lone aid car.

Ever heard of a fire station without a fire truck? Only in Seattle.

The City Council is expected to vote on these and many other budget cuts in a few weeks.

In the meantime, are you staying informed on the effect the proposed cuts might have on you and your loved ones? Of course you are!

But just to be sure, take the following Public Safety Quiz:

1. Interestingly, the proposal to cut fire and rescue services is based in part on the somewhat controversial recommendations of

A) Computer software.

B) City accountants.

C) The bride of Chucky.

2. If fire and rescue services are cut, "flame-broiled" could become a popular Seattle

A) Hamburger.

B) Kabob.

C) Hairdo.

3. Seattle residents should prepare for a fire emergency by stocking up on

A) Smoke detectors.

B) Fire extinguishers.

C) Marshmallows.

4. When it comes to the proposed budget cuts, smart Seattleites know they must never give up their

A) Optimism.

B) Activism.

C) Fire insurance.

5. If you live in the Green Lake area and your home catches fire, don't panic. The blaze will be extinguished by

A) Other stations.

B) Other crews.

C) The wet weather.

6. In an attempt to prepare themselves for the possible loss of Engine 16, Green Lake residents are taking one day at a time and learning to

A) Stop worrying.

B) Stop whining.

C) Stop, drop, and roll.

7. Complete the following word or phrase. Bucket

A) ful.

B) Seats.

C) Brigade.

8. Why does a Seattle fireman wear red suspenders?

A) Fashion statement.

B) Matches the truck he used to have.

C) Afraid the City will decommission his pants.

9. If fire and rescue services are cut, local wags say in case of a fire you should call

A) 911.

B) Your neighbors.

C) Mayor Nickels, who will come and blow it out.

10. History blames the Great Seattle Fire of 1889 on

A) A glue pot.

B) Careless smokers.

C) Budget cuts.