News Release
Fire Chiefs Salute Canada's Firefighters
September 8, 2004 - This week is designated as National Firefighters Week in Canada. The Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs is paying tribute to thousands of Canadians who volunteer their time and efforts in the cause of fire safety and prevention.
Designating the week in which September 11 falls as National Firefighters Week enables the CAFC to perpetually honour those 344 firefighters who lost their lives at the World Trade Centre disaster. It also an opportunity to commend the thousands of men and women who work in fire services across Canada.
This year, Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency want to honour volunteer firefighters who risk their lives fighting fires and performing other emergency services in their communities. HRM has over 800 volunteers. Their selfless contributions, for the safety and well-being of their fellow citizens, are highly commendable and greatly appreciated.
Residents of HRM should take a moment during this week to reflect on the dedication and commitment of all firefighters (career and volunteer) in the fire service of HRM.
"The biggest risk firefighters face comes in battling large fires", said Chief Ken Kelly, President of the CAFC and Chief of the Yarmouth Fire Department. "These can be very dangerous and unpredictable situations, and in many cases require trying to save the lives of people trapped inside burning buildings".
But, Michael Eddy, Chief Director of Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency also wants residents to be aware of the other types of emergency response firefighters are involved in - human rescue at car crashes, chemical spills and contamination, severe weather emergencies like Hurricane Juan, potentially fatal carbon monoxide leaks, etc. Firefighters also assist in educating the public about fire safety and prevention.
He went on to say that "today, our service is doing much more than emergency fire response. We are involved in community emergency preparedness, Urban Search and Rescue, Safe Communities Foundation, and partnerships with other levels of government".
Michael Eddy said that "he extends his heartfelt thanks to all members of the Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency who play a large part in protecting our communities and for their hard work and dedication in continuing to offer a world class emergency service to the residents of the Halifax Regional Municipality".
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For Further Information contact:
Mike LeRue, Divisional Chief
Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency
(902) 430-3820
