International Firefighters’ Day(IFFD) is annually observed across the globe on 4th May to honour and recognise the incredible work done by the firefighters while protecting the life and property of people. IFFD also aims to pay tribute to the firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty.
- The day 4th May is also marked as St Florian’s Day. St Florian is the Patron Saint of Firefighters.
IFFD’s symbol: Red and Blue ribbon (two colours fused on top) is the significant symbol of the IFFD, the red colour symbolises the element of Fire and the blue symbolises the element of water.
Background:
i.International Firefighters Day(IFFD) was initiated to honour the deaths of 5 firefighters who died in the line of duty in the 1998 Wildfire at Linton, Victoria, Australia.
ii.On 4th January 1999, Australian firefighter JJ Edmondson sent out the proposal to observe 4th May as International Firefighters Day.
- The first-ever International Firefighters Day was observed on 4th May 1999.
Why May 4?
The date, May 4th, for IFFD, was chosen to coincide with the feast day of St Florian.
- St Florian (250-304AD) was the first known commander of one firefighting squad in the Roman Empire.
- He lost his life, as well as those of his colleagues, for protecting the same humane ideas which are shared by firefighters all over the world.
Sound Off:
i.For the first time, in 2002 the “sound off” was conducted to reflect on the commitment and sacrifices of firefighters worldwide.
ii.Following the success of the inaugural sound-off, it is now annually conducted on the 1st Sunday of every May.
- 2023 Sound-off will be conducted on 7th May 2023.
Related observance in India:
In India, 14th April of every year is observed as the National Fire Service (NFS) Day to pay tribute to the firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty and emphasize the importance of fire service.
