Nyeri fire fighters pose for a photo during the IFFD celebrations yesterday
By Our Correspondent
The Department of Gender, Youth, Social Services and Sports held the International Fire Fighters Day (IFFD) Celebrations to honour the firefighters yesterday at Whispers Park.
The event brought together the firefighters from Nyeri and Karatina fire stations for the celebrations that were attended by dozens of Nyeri residents.
International Firefighters’ Day is a day set aside to recognize and honor the sacrifices made by firefighters all over the world.
The day is celebrated annually on 4th day in the month of May and is used in among other thing, paying tribute to the brave men and women who risk their lives to protect the communities from fire and other emergencies.
This year’s theme of “Honoring the Heroes Who Protect Us” reflects the importance of recognizing the bravery and dedication of firefighters who risk their lives to keep communities safe.
Firefighters are ranked amongst the most courageous individuals in the society where they are adored for their prowess in rushing into burning buildings where they put their lives on the line to save people and animals.
Joe Gethi, a Chief Officer in Nyeri government described the firefighters as the epitome of bravery, terming their commitment to serving our communities as nothing short of heroic.
He noted that they work tirelessly, often in the face of great danger and risk, to keep everyone safe and protect homes and businesses from the devastating effects of fire.
Gethi acknowledged that the community owes a debt of gratitude to the brave individuals who often go unnoticed and unrecognized.
During the event, the public was sensitized on the causes of fire, fire protection and prevention, Fire alarming and extinguishing, fire exit and assembly point, mitigation, social enquiry and response, first aid and fire and rescue hotline numbers among other issues.
The main activities also involved tree planting, procession, exhibition and fire drills and public sensitization.
In her remarks, the Director of Social Services, Monica Thumbi acknowledged the numerous challenges the fire fighters face on daily basis, from battling towering infernos to responding to medical emergencies and natural disasters.
She further observed the emotional and mental toll that firefighting take on firefighters everyday, noting that no matter the challenge, the firefighters always rise to the occasion with skill, determination, and a deep sense of duty to their communities.
She pledged the commitment of the County Government of Nyeri in supporting the fire fighters through training, provision of equipment, and resources they need to do their jobs effectively and efficiently.