International Firefighters Day(IFFD) is annually observed across the globe on 4th May to recognise and honour the contribution and sacrifices of the Firefighters to ensure the safety of their community and environment.
Background:
The International Firefighters Day was proposed by the Australian firefighter JJ Edmondson on 4th January 1999 to honour and remember the deaths of 5 firefighters who died in the line of duty in the 1998 Wildfire at Linton, Victoria, Australia.
Why May 4?
May 4 coincides with the feast day of St Florian, the patron saint of all firefighters.
St Florian was the first known commander of the fire fighting squad in the Roman Empire.
IFFD Ribbon:
i.IFFD Ribbon has two colours Red and Blue which symbolises Fire and Water respectively.
ii.The red and blue is internationally recognised as the representative of emergency services.
Sound off:
i.As a part of the IFFD 2002 the “Sound Off” was first observed on the first Sunday of May to reflect the commitment and sacrifices of the firefighters across the globe.
ii.Since 2002 the Sound Off has been annually observed on the first Sunday of May.
