Guy Bourrie’s column of Jan. 6 was about how truck engine brakes are needed. Engine brakes should be used on highways and steep downgrades for safety; however, if they are needed in a residential area, then the driver is not obeying the speed limit.

When engine brakes are used in residential areas such as mine, the truck exhaust stinks of diesel fuel and black soot every time the driver downshifts, making the air so polluted I have to keep doors and windows shut during the spring, summer and fall season.

Most truck drivers are considerate, but some couldn’t care less.

William A. Ferentz, Lewiston