THE tasks carried out by the fire brigade cannot be fully accomplished by their own efforts alone, and they can become more effective and stronger only with the cooperation and participation of the public, said Vice-President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar U Nyo Saw at the ceremony to mark the 80th Anniversary of Myanmar Fire Brigade Day which took place at the Myanmar International Convention Centre I (MICC I) in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday morning.
In his speech, the Vice-President recognized and honoured the efforts and sacrifice of members from the Myanmar Fire Brigade in carrying out rescue and rehabilitation operations not only in the outbreak of fire but in natural disasters the State has experienced.
He highlighted that the Fire Brigade, in line with the leadership of the Ministry of Home Affairs, has set and is implementing four major objectives. Firefighting duties require immediate and timely emergency response and action. In the present day, the fire brigade is not limited to firefighting alone; it must also promptly respond to and carry out public service functions such as search and rescue operations, disaster management, and emergency medical response.
He continued that the tasks carried out by the fire brigade cannot be fully accomplished by their own efforts alone, and they can become more effective and stronger only with the cooperation and participation of the public.
Concerning natural disaster incidents, the Vice-President noted that fire brigade members, together with members of Tatmadaw and the Myanmar Police Force, other relevant departments, and social organizations, have been able to cooperate and coordinate effectively, swiftly, and to the best possible extent in responding to every disaster encountered in the affected areas under the management of the State.
He emphasized that lessons have been drawn from the Mandalay earthquake incident, and the State has already granted approval to form two Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Medium Teams in line with international standards. Efforts must be made to continuously train and prepare in order to enhance the operational capacity of firefighters. It is also a source of great satisfaction that members of the Fire Brigade have won medals in international skills competitions, thereby bringing honour to the nation. He urged all to maintain these fine traditions.
The future Fire Brigade needs to continue standing as an organization with a stronger structure, higher capabilities, and the ability to keep pace with international standards. Therefore, all fire brigade members must maintain discipline and continuous training while striving to improve their individual capability, and they must continue to carry out their duties with a strong sense of responsibility as dedicated public servants.
He said that, in recognition and honour of the dignity of fire brigade members who, throughout successive eras, have sacrificed and risked their lives and limbs in the line of duty, efforts must be made to build and sustain the Fire Brigade for many years to come as a reliable force on which the public can depend, with protecting the lives, homes, and property of the people.
The Vice-President presented honorary awards to renowned vocalist U Tun Shwe, who sings the song titled “Beware of Fire”, former auxiliary and permanent fire brigade members above 90 years old, Fire Sergeant U Tun Kyi and U Thaung Myint, Deputy Commanding Officer (Retd) of the Auxiliary Fire Brigade U Chit Hlaing and Deputy Fire Staff Officer (Retd) U Tin Nyunt.
Union Minister for Home Affairs Lt-Gen Nyunt Win Swe presented a commemorative gift to the Vice-President. The Union minister awarded the Ye Bala medallists.
The Vice-President watched a documentary video clip on the celebration of the 80th Anniversary of Myanmar Fire Brigade Day. He viewed round documentary photos, ancient fire extinguishers, modern emergency response communication facilities, modern equipment for fire extinguishing, and devices for search and rescue operations displayed at the hall and observed the search dog demonstration.
Also, present at the celebration were Union-level dignitaries, deputy ministers, the Chairman of Myanmar War Veterans Organization, senior Tatmadaw officers, departmental heads, officers, and members of Myanmar Fire Brigade Headquarters, and retired senior fire officers.
MNA/TTA
#TheGlobalNewLightOfMyanmar