Using Fear as a Weapon

I agree with using caution in life. One probably should look both ways before crossing the street, be aware of their surroundings, and even know about the sexual predators in their area. Yes, those are all valid things with which to be concerned.

Should one learn the evacuation route of the city in which they’re living? Sure, fine. Should one be aware of potential terrorist targets? I would have to think that knowledge might not be a bad idea.

BUT I do not think that using that knowledge as leverage is smart nor does it put you or your organization in a good light.

The Boston Fire Fighters Union is sending out 15,000 mailers to the city’s harbor residents. In theses fliers is information telling residents their safety is at risk. Why? Because they (the firefighters) say Mayor Menino does not have an adequate plan for a potential explosion of the large LNG tank. Apparently it says that there are and would not be enough firefighters on staff to subdue the aftermath.

Let me enlighten you…IF the LNG tanker explodes, there will be more than a fire to worry about.

My question is why would you even say something like that? Bring fear into the hearts of citizens who are most likely already aware of the dangers of this?

Why? Because the Firefighters Union is battling for a new contract. Mayor Menino wants to add mandatory, random drug and alcohol testing to firefighters’ contracts without giving them a 21% raise.

Two firefighters died on duty six months ago in an extremely large restaurant fire. One had traces of cocaine in his system, the other had a blood alcohol level of .27. Thats more than 3 times the legal limit to drive in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

And they’re complaining of what? Having their rights to be baked on the job infringed?

So instead of I don’t know, rallying the people of Boston in a positive way they do what? Scare them.

Using scare tactics to get what you want in my opinion is never a smart or noble way to go. In fact, it’s pretty darn low. Granted I haven’t seen the flier (only read reports on the news) but I think the point is still clear.