20200504 International Firefighters Day
St. Florian Day and International Firefighters Day is May 4
On December 2, 1998, a tragic event shook the Linton Community, Australia and the world. Firefighters in Linton, Australia, a populated region in Victoria, were fighting a large bush fire and called for mutual aid. This urgent mutual aid call brought the Geelong West Fire Brigade to the scene, not knowing the despair and tragedy that was in store. Garry Vredeveldt, Chris Evans, Stuart Davidson, Jason Thomas, and Matthew Armstrong all loaded into company’s truck. They were part of a strike team and were being sent to help extinguish the flames. As the five headed into the hot zone, the wind suddenly switched direction, engulfing the truck in flames and killing all five members. This unfortunate incident is what inspired JJ Edmondson to bring about an international holiday, called International Firefighters' Day, to support the lives lost and dedicated fire fighters who risk their lives every day to save life and property.
The Use of Red and Blue Ribbon
One of the most significant symbols of International Firefighters' Day is the red and blue ribbon. This ribbon is cut precisely five centimeters long and one centimeter wide, with the two separate colors conjoined at the top. JJ Edmondson chose red and blue because the red stood for the element of fire whereas the blue would represent the element of water. Coincidentally, red and blue are also the colors recognized world-wide to signify emergency services; therefore, red and blue being the best choice of color to recognize an international holiday. The ribbon is traditionally worn on the lapel-otherwise known as the fold of fabric on a shirt- but is not limited to that certain spot. Some people may also put it on their cars visors, hats, hang them in windows or off of car mirrors, or even hang them from trees in their front lawn. The places this ribbon can be placed are plentiful- just be creative! The red and blue ribbon is a simple but yet effective way to show support for International Firefighters' Day.
The History of St. Florian
Saint Florian, the patron saint of firefighters, is also another symbolic element to International Firefighters' Day. St. Florian was a patron from Noricum, Rome in 300 AD, who was said to be one of the first commanding fire fighters of an actual battalion. As legend states, St. Florian saved an entire village engulfed in flames using just a single bucket of water. Legend also states, because of this act St. Florian is known as the protector of those who have come in danger of fire. The duties St. Florian performed for his province are the same duties that firefighters around the world perform every day—with the same dedication and braveries. On May 4, St. Florian is globally recognized and honored and is also known as the day of St. Florian. Therefore, International Firefighters' Day was chosen to be honored on May 4 in honor of the saint.
How You Can Observe Today:
Consider how you can make your home, office, workplace, or any building fire safe. Clear out trash, remove obstacles from exits, and plan for fire emergencies. Know how to contact your local fire department (usually calling 9-1-1 in the USA) and know how to give the information to dispatch the fire department to your location. Check your fire and smoke detectors according to the instructions, and replace batteries every 6 months. Know how to use a fire extinguisher, and if one is not in your home, consider purchasing one for each floor, including the garage.
Practice a fire drill, and designate a “Meeting Place” for everyone to gather to make sure everyone has exited the building. Know how to “Stop-Drop-and Roll” if your clothing catches fire. Make sure electrical equipment and appliances are in good working order, and that cords are not broken or frayed. Check the duty rating of extension cords to make sure they can safely be used with the appliance you are using.
There are many more fire safety tips available on many websites. A few clicks of the mouse when checking for these could safe a life—including yours!
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20200504 International Firefighters Day
St. Florian Day and International Firefighters Day is May 4
On December 2, 1998, a tragic event shook the Linton Community, Australia and the world. Firefighters in Linton, Australia, a populated region in Victoria, were fighting a large bush fire and called for mutual aid. This urgent mutual aid call brought the Geelong West Fire Brigade to the scene, not knowing the despair and tragedy that was in store. Garry Vredeveldt, Chris Evans, Stuart Davidson, Jason Thomas, and Matthew Armstrong all loaded into company’s truck. They were part of a strike team and were being sent to help extinguish the flames. As the five headed into the hot zone, the wind suddenly switched direction, engulfing the truck in flames and killing all five members. This unfortunate incident is what inspired JJ Edmondson to bring about an international holiday, called International Firefighters' Day, to support the lives lost and dedicated fire fighters who risk their lives every day to save life and property.
The Use of Red and Blue Ribbon
One of the most significant symbols of International Firefighters' Day is the red and blue ribbon. This ribbon is cut precisely five centimeters long and one centimeter wide, with the two separate colors conjoined at the top. JJ Edmondson chose red and blue because the red stood for the element of fire whereas the blue would represent the element of water. Coincidentally, red and blue are also the colors recognized world-wide to signify emergency services; therefore, red and blue being the best choice of color to recognize an international holiday. The ribbon is traditionally worn on the lapel-otherwise known as the fold of fabric on a shirt- but is not limited to that certain spot. Some people may also put it on their cars visors, hats, hang them in windows or off of car mirrors, or even hang them from trees in their front lawn. The places this ribbon can be placed are plentiful- just be creative! The red and blue ribbon is a simple but yet effective way to show support for International Firefighters' Day.
The History of St. Florian
Saint Florian, the patron saint of firefighters, is also another symbolic element to International Firefighters' Day. St. Florian was a patron from Noricum, Rome in 300 AD, who was said to be one of the first commanding fire fighters of an actual battalion. As legend states, St. Florian saved an entire village engulfed in flames using just a single bucket of water. Legend also states, because of this act St. Florian is known as the protector of those who have come in danger of fire. The duties St. Florian performed for his province are the same duties that firefighters around the world perform every day—with the same dedication and braveries. On May 4, St. Florian is globally recognized and honored and is also known as the day of St. Florian. Therefore, International Firefighters' Day was chosen to be honored on May 4 in honor of the saint.
How You Can Observe Today:
Consider how you can make your home, office, workplace, or any building fire safe. Clear out trash, remove obstacles from exits, and plan for fire emergencies. Know how to contact your local fire department (usually calling 9-1-1 in the USA) and know how to give the information to dispatch the fire department to your location. Check your fire and smoke detectors according to the instructions, and replace batteries every 6 months. Know how to use a fire extinguisher, and if one is not in your home, consider purchasing one for each floor, including the garage.
Practice a fire drill, and designate a “Meeting Place” for everyone to gather to make sure everyone has exited the building. Know how to “Stop-Drop-and Roll” if your clothing catches fire. Make sure electrical equipment and appliances are in good working order, and that cords are not broken or frayed. Check the duty rating of extension cords to make sure they can safely be used with the appliance you are using.
There are many more fire safety tips available on many websites. A few clicks of the mouse when checking for these could safe a life—including yours!
20200504 125/366