Born on May 4
International Firefighters' Day
Thank those who run towards the fire.
Next: May 4, 2027
Where it comes from
International Firefighters' Day was started in 1999 by JJ Edmondson, a volunteer firefighter in Victoria, Australia. In December 1998 five volunteer firefighters from Geelong West lost their lives when a sudden wind change turned a bushfire near Linton onto their tanker.
How it's celebrated
Supporters wear a ribbon of blue over red, for water over fire, the colours of the emergency services. On the first Sunday of May, brigades in many countries hold a 'Sound Off', honouring firefighters' service with sound rather than a minute's silence.
Did you know
The proposal for the day was first sent out by email on 4 January 1999, with a request to forward it to every brigade, magazine and fire organisation people knew.
Read the full story of International Firefighters' Day
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Taurus · April 20 – May 20 · Earth sign
Steady and loyal, with a weakness for good food and comfortable things.