Monday, September 12, 2005
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is being criticized for misallocation of personnel in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. FEMA representatives said they requested volunteers from fire departments around the U.S., to handle its community relations campaign. However, a document FEMA sent to local fire departments asked for firefighters with very specific skills and who were capable of working in “austere conditions”. Fire departments around the nation responded by sending crews to the FEMA staging ground in Atlanta. Some of these crews were unaware that they were only going to be used for public relations work. Others, however, merely hoped that FEMA would allocate them to rescue and damage control operations once it saw their qualifications.
The firefighter’s objections are particularly poignant as one of FEMA public relations training seminars coincided with New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin plea for firefighters on national television, to relieve his own exhausted crews. It is unclear if FEMA’s request for firefighters prevented any municipalities from responding to Mayor Nagin’s request.
Some firefighters have objected to their use as FEMA public relations officers because their municipalities must bear the cost of their salaries, as well as endure reduced firefighting capacity. FEMA has stated that it sought to use firefighters to avoid background checks required of federal employees.
Firefighters began receiving their assignments Monday, September 5th. Among these was a crew of 50 assigned to tour the devastated areas with President Bush and the press.
May
31
Looking For Outdoor Living Options? Consider Fire Pits In Salt Lake City, Ut
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byAlma Abell
One of the current design trends is expanding a home’s living area by making better use of outdoor spaces. Decks and patios are becoming increasingly important as property owners look for ways to enjoy the outdoors and entertain guests. One of the components now routinely seen in outdoor living spaces is Fire Pits in Salt Lake City UT.
Choosing the Best Options
Fire pits come in a variety of sizes and styles designed to fit virtually any exterior living space. Of course, there are also many materials used to create fire pits, suggesting it should never be difficult to locate a fire pit or fire table to meet a home’s unique needs. The fuel source selected will also be important, as fire pits and tables using wood, natural gas, or LP gas are all readily available. Design experts will generally work closely with property owners to ensure the best fuel option is selected.
Eat, Entertain, and Stay Warm
Fire Pits in Salt Lake City UT can be used as gathering spots for family and friends during most of the year. Even cooler nights will be comfortable when everyone is sitting around a fire pit enjoying each other’s company. Many designs include sitting areas that double as dining spaces. That means everyone can be together as they eat a wonderful dinner. Contractors and design professionals help clients define their needs and select the best fire pits to meet those needs.
Enjoy Flexibility
It’s rather easy to locate a fire pit just about wherever a homeowner feels appropriate. While routing natural gas lines poses some degree of difficulty during installations, opting for wood or LP fire pits makes it possible to install a fire pit just about anywhere. That level of flexibility is ideal for property owners who want to periodically change their deck or patio configuration.
If you’re currently considering a fire pit or table, now is the perfect time to contact a professional for advice. The experts are always available to help homeowners decide which fire pit or fire table would best fulfill their design objectives. If you’ve got questions or would like to explore your outdoor living options, contact Stone Mountain Castings & Design today. Like us on Facebook.