Wheteher you are a police, fire or emergency medical first responder you should be aware of the recent letter and release that came out of U.S. Senator Charles Schumer's office on March 8th.

The release said, "Today Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) sent a letter to Secretary Michael Chertoff opposing the Department of Homeland Security's plan to remove hazardous materials placards from freight rail cars and urged DHS to work more closely with local governments to ensure first responder teams have all they need in the event of a derailment or terrorist attack. Exterior hazardous material (HAZMAT) placards inform first responders of the contents of freight train cars and are essential to inform critical decisions on community evacuation and treatment for victims."

That is right, no hazmat placards on rails cars.

I know you can go and get the shipping documents from the folks on the train but what would you rather have? The rail car number, commodity reference or special permit number always seemed to be handy to spot with your binoculars.

I know that DHS is approaching this from a security point of view, but it would good to give your Congressperson your thoughts on this. After all you are the one on the street.