International Firefighters' Day is May 4. According to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), "This day of recognition is at the core of what the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation does. Our mission is to honor and remember America’s fallen firefighters, assist their families in rebuilding their lives, and prevent firefighter injuries and deaths."
Each year, people all over the world celebrate the dedication of firefighters in their communities. Firefighters dedicate their lives to protecting property and lives. They may be volunteers or full-time career firefighters. In either case, it's common for firefighters to routinely risk their lives in an effort to do their job.
On International Firefighters' Day, the world is invited to recognize the sacrifices so willingly made by these heroes. Now is a great time to thank Boston firefighters for their consistent dedication to the well-being of our community.
Each year, on the first Sunday in May, you may hear fire sirens sound for 30 seconds at noon. A moment of silence is observed after the sirens are silenced in memory of firefighters who have been lost in the line of duty or who have passed on.
History of International Firefighter Appreciation Day
On December 2, 1998, five firefighters died during a wildfire in Linton Community, Australia, when the wind direction changed, making it impossible for them to escape the fire. The fallen firefighters are Matthew Armstrong, Jason Thomas, Stuart Davidson, Chris Evans and Garry Vredeveldt.
We celebrate National Firefighters' Day on May 4th because it's also Saint Florian's Day.
Saint Florian is believed to be one of the first commending firefighters of a Roman battalion and is the patron saint of firefighters.
International Firefighters' Day Official Symbol
The official symbol of International Firefighters' Day is a blue and red ribbon. The ribbon is one centimeter wide and five centimeters long, with blue and red joined at the top. The blue represents water and the red represents fire. These two colors are recognized around the globe as the official symbol for emergency services.
The International Firefighters' Day ribbon is typically worn on the lapel of a shirt. Some people also place them in significant locations like the rearview mirror of their car, pinned to their hat, or attached to the front window of their home.
Ways to Celebrate Firefighters (Day)
There are several ways to celebrate National Firefighters' Day. The NFFF asks that you join in the celebration by lighting your home in red on May 4. Change your porch lights to red bulbs and share photos on social media with #Shine4Firefighters to thank the firefighters who work so hard to keep us safe.
Here are some additional simple and easy ways to celebrate National Firefighters' Day:
- Find downloadable resources including social media graphics and web banners to use to promote International Firefighters’ Day in your community.
- Draw, color, craft and share your thank you using #WeThankFFs on International Firefighters’ Day.
- On May 4, post a picture on your social media platforms of a firefighter who is important to you with the hashtag #ThisIsMyFirefighter.
- Let the NFFF know about your tribute to firefighters by filling out their online form. Boston Firefighter Relief Fund
If you'd like to make a difference in the lives of Boston firefighters, consider providing direct support by making a donation to the Boston Fire Department Relief Fund (BFD). You can make a donation to the BFD any time of year.
The BFD uses donations for the following initiatives:
- Direct support to Boston firefighters as part of the body scan initiative
- Scholarships for children of Boston Firefighters
- Donations to support active and retired members of the Boston Fire Department
- Support for the Annual Ball and Awards Ceremony of the Boston Fire Department
The Boston Firefighters Credit Union (BFCU) provides high-quality services with the lowest possible rates with the goal of assisting firefighters, EMS, Suffolk County sheriffs, and police officers. Since 1948, we've grown into a full-service financial institution and we continue to strive to make your banking experience Simple and Honest.
Join us in celebrating and honoring Boston Firefighters this month.
