There has been a great deal of negative publicity about the Oak Bluffs fire department recently, so I would like to offer a different perspective. On a recent evening when I headed to my car I heard what sounded like the neighbor’s smoke alarm going off. Nobody answered the door when I knocked, but it seemed like there was smoke inside.

I decided to call 911 and within minutes there was someone there and shortly thereafter the fire truck arrived. Everyone was calm, courteous and totally professional. I was very impressed with how the whole situation was handled and luckily there did not seem to be a serious problem.

I know I speak for many people when I say thank you to everyone at the fire department for all you do. Although we don’t often express our gratitude, we want you to know how much we appreciate having you there when we need you.

We are very lucky.

Again, many, many thanks.

Richard Johnson

Oak Bluffs