A writer self-identified as living below the Haiku Stairs said he witnessed “numerous rescues by our courageous first responders” (“Haiku Stairs put first responders at risk,” Star-Advertiser, Letters, July 7).

I, too, live below the Haiku Stairs and can see them from my home. Yes, we often have helicopters buzzing above our neighborhood, but I suspect most of them carry sightseers rather than first responders, and I have never personally witnessed a rescue.

The stairs, sheltered by railings on both sides for their entire length, have a safety record equal to the safest trails on the island. One wonders about all these “rescues” from the stairs. Is it that someone is feeling tired?

The stairs have been legally closed for many years, with millions of dollars spent for police (seen every day in our neighborhood) and guards at the trailhead, all hired to keep hikers out.

It’s a pity this money could not have been used in a more positive way, implementing residential-free access to the stairs, which offer among the most beautiful and magnificent views in our nation.

Bill Cunningham

Kaneohe