5 May 2022

Staff at West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service joined fire services around the country and the world, as they gathered to observe International Firefighters Day.

A minute’s silence was held at midday as fire service colleagues stood together in recognition of the commitment made by firefighters to keep their communities and local environments as safe as possible.

role of firefighters

Deputy Chief Firefighter - Dave Walton said, “International Firefighters Memorial Day is a day to reflect on the role of firefighters, and to honor and remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty."

He adds, "Firefighters, bomberos, pompiers, strażacy, firefighters...no matter what language we speak, we all fight fire together. This year I think particularly of colleagues in Ukraine, and those who serve in war-torn areas worldwide.”

In Calderdale District, crews from Illingworth, Halifax, Mytholmroyd, and Calderdale District were joined by MP Holly Lynch who attended the ceremony.