When the fire trucks are delayed 40 seconds in traffic, People say: "It took them 20 minutes to get here."

When the truck races at 40 m.p.h., it's: "Look at those reckless fools."

When four men struggle with an eight-man ladder: "They don't even know how to raise a ladder."

When firemen open windows for ventilation to reduce heat in fighting a fire: "Look at the wrecking crew."

When they open the floor to get at a blaze: "There goes the axe squad."

If the chief stands back where he can see and direct his men, people say: "He's afraid to go where he sends his men."

If they lose a building: "It's a lousy department." If they make a good "stop" folks say: "The fire didn't amount to much."

If lots of water is necessary: "They are doing more damage with water than the flames."

If a fireman gets hurt: "He was a careless guy."

If a citizen gets hurt: "It's a crazy department."

If a fireman inspects a citizen's property: "He's meddling in somebody's business."

If he wants a fire hazard correct: "I'll see the mayor