There's been a lot of talk lately about pensions. That's because the security of our pensions is at risk. Thousands of employees in the auto, steel and airline industries are losing them. And now public employees are facing similar uncertainties.

There are several ways pensions can be threatened:

• Cutting pension benefits
• Attacking the pension system
• Taking pension funds to use in other areas

Fire fighters' pensions reflect the hazards of our occupation. But, we have worked hard to obtain these benefits. And we must be ready to protect them. Affiliate leaders must be on top of the latest information and strategies to protect the future.