Fire and Emergency acknowledges International Firefighters’ Day

Whether it’s putting out fires, responding to medical emergencies, road accidents or cleaning up hazardous materials, New Zealand firefighters dedicate their lives to helping their local communities and keeping them safe.

That’s why Fire and Emergency New Zealand is putting the spotlight on International Firefighters’ Day today.

"We’re extremely proud of our 1747 career firefighters and 11,295 volunteer firefighters who protect life and property in urban and rural communities from Stewart Island to the Far North, and Chatham Islands - and internationally when needed," Chief Executive Rhys Jones says.

"On this day, we also acknowledge all fire and emergency service workers across the world who have fallen or been injured in the line of duty."

Last year New Zealand’s firefighters responded to 77,465 incidents across the country, - more than 200 every day - including;

-11,681 medical emergencies

-6,217 motor vehicle accidents

-5,236 structure fires

-3,859 vegetation fires

-3,280 hazardous materials incidents

-2,260 extreme weather events

"Today is about celebrating the great work that our people do but it’s also about acknowledging the sacrifices of their friends and family," says Mr Jones.

"Our people couldn’t do what they do without the support of their family, friends, and the employers of volunteer firefighters, so on behalf of the organisation I want to thank you as well for everything you do to support firefighters in your community."

"This International Firefighters’ Day we’re also calling on Kiwis to help firefighters out this winter by following these simple safety steps. They’re small things we can all do to keep our homes and families safe from fire."

-Keep a clear space around your heater or fireplace. Kids, curtains, couches and washing all need to be at least a metre away.

-Make sure your electric blanket is always flat on the bed and that the controls or cords are not twisted. Replace your electric blanket every five years.

-Make sure you clean out the lint filter in your dryer after each cycle, don’t overload it and make sure it is properly ventilated.

-Dispose of ashes safely. Put them in a metal bucket with a lid, then thoroughly douse with water. Ashes can stay hot enough to start a fire for up to five days.

To help celebrate firefighters in their regions, local MPs throughout the country will be visiting their local fire stations and finding out more about the important work they do.

Kiwis can also take part on the day by sharing stories of what their local firefighters mean to them on social media using #internationalfirefightersdaynz or following @FireEmergencyNZ or on Facebook.

ENDS

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