Water diversions

Re “A water scofflaw explains,” Sept. 19

The editorial about the “drought busters” didn’t mention the “blue barrel buster.” While taking out some trash on collection day, I saw a white truck going up and down the cul de sac. The driver got out in front of each house and looked into the blue recycling barrels.

I thought someone was scavenging, but when he pulled up, I could see the official logo. Turns out he’s what I’d call a blue barrel buster, looking for bins with non-recyclable items such as garbage. So beware.

Abe Hoffman

Canoga Park

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Your editorial, in addition to being ironic, revealed a more fundamental problem.

Everyone should know where the shut-offs are and how to operate them for all utilities. Where’s the gas line valve when you notice that funny smell? Earthquake valve installed? How about a battery backup to open your garage door? And everyone with a cordless telephone should have at least one hard-wired instrument. If you don’t know why, then you really do need one.

Steve Lawrence

Los Angeles