To the editor:

I’m writing to thank the Lemay and Mehlville Fire and EMS Departments for their wonderful response on Aug. 28 to a fire emergency at the senior apartments where I live.

Around midday, residents noticed large flames coming from the trash receptacle on the patio. 911 was called, alarms sounded and within minutes units from both districts swarmed around the building.

While some fought the flames, others worked quickly to evacuate those who needed help. Due to the uncertainty of when tenants could reenter the building safely, a Metro bus was requested to temporarily house those who couldn’t leave the premises. This air-conditioned shelter, along with sandwiches and drinks supplied by some volunteers, gave comforting respite to many of my neighbors.

So often those who hear emergency vehicles’ loud alarms and blaring horn blasts don’t hesitate to think about the mission the men and women behind the wheel are on. When we need them, they are our first responders. They deserve thanks.

Teresa Moore

South County