To the Editor:

My husband and I spent a very informative meeting at the library on Saturday morning, February 18, learning about Emergency Management in Princeton. It’s a much more complex subject than I’d realized, and it was reassuring to hear from the competent panel members who had been asked to speak by Princeton Future, which sponsored the meeting. I think everyone in town would benefit from getting a copy of “Preparing for Emergencies,” published by the Mercer County Office of Emergency Management; it’s a very practical document.

The presentation of Frank Setnicky, Director of Operations of the Princeton First Aid and Rescue Squad, was clear and concise, but one of Mr. Setnicky’s slides startled me. It showed that donations to the Squad have been dropping steadily for the last few years. As someone who remembers how quickly and effectively the Squad came through when we had an emergency at our home, I’ve always sent the Squad yearly donations. Now that the hospital is moving and Princeton residents will depend on the Squad even more, I’m concerned that it may not have the funds to continue its excellent work and to meet the increased demand.

So I’m writing two checks this week. The first is to the Princeton First Aid and Rescue Squad, North Harrison St., Princeton 08542 (www.pfars.org). It will reach them at their inadequate, leaky building, which needs replacement. The other check is to Princeton Future, PO Box 1172, Princeton 08542, which continues to sponsor these excellent, community-oriented meetings. Both organizations are 501(C)3 non-profits who depend on our continued support.

Francesca Benson

Bainbridge Street