Read the following introduction then answer the questions.

Across the nation, volunteer fire companies are finding it hard to stay open. A recent survey found that volunteer firefighter numbers for 2016 and 2017 are the lowest ever recorded. Local companies are closing or merging. The lack of available volunteers puts all of us at risk.

What is the topic of the informational text?

Why is that topic important?

How did the writer try to grab the reader’s attention?

The topic of the informational text is the declining numbers of volunteer firefighters and the challenges faced by volunteer fire companies.

The topic is important because the lack of available volunteers puts communities at risk as it becomes harder to ensure quick and effective responses to fires and emergencies.

The writer tried to grab the reader's attention by highlighting the seriousness of the issue and using alarming statements such as "lowest ever recorded" and "puts all of us at risk".

The topic of the informational text is the decline of volunteer fire companies and the impact on communities.

The topic is important because it highlights a concerning trend of decreasing volunteer firefighter numbers, which can have serious consequences for public safety.

The writer tried to grab the reader's attention by conveying the urgency of the situation. They mentioned that volunteer firefighter numbers are at their lowest ever recorded, local companies are closing or merging, and emphasized that the lack of available volunteers puts everyone at risk.

To determine the answers to these questions, we can analyze the given introduction.

The topic of the informational text is the decline in volunteer fire companies and the impact it has on the community's safety.

This topic is important because the decrease in volunteer firefighter numbers has significant consequences. It poses a threat to public safety as local companies are closing or merging, leading to a scarcity of available volunteers.

The writer tried to grab the reader's attention by presenting a concerning fact in the opening sentence. By stating that volunteer firefighter numbers for 2016 and 2017 are the lowest ever recorded, it creates a sense of urgency and draws the reader's attention to the issue. Additionally, the writer highlights the potential risk to the public, emphasizing the importance of the topic.