International Fire Fighter’s Day

International Firefighters' Day is observed annually on May 4 to honour firefighters around the world, who dedicate their lives to the protection of people and property.

Anton Bredell, the minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning in the Western Cape, says firefighters are heroes who are on duty 24/7, often at great personal cost.

“I want to salute all firefighters for their selfless efforts over the past year. Firefighters, along with paramedics have always been the frontline of our response to emergencies and we are privileged to have men and women we can count on time and again.”

During 2020/21 the Western Cape once again experienced some devastating wildfires such as the Jonkershoek Fire and the recent Table Mountain Fire. 

“This year we saw firefighters from different towns, cities and institutions including the Volunteer Wildfire Service, CapeNature, Working on Fire, Sanparks and others, stand together in fighting fires threatening our communities. It was inspiring. Today I want to thank them all once more and I want to remember those who have paid the ultimate price. I also want to thank all the family members, friends and colleagues of our brave men and women for their support and sacrifice in supporting our firefighters.”