Seychellois firemen celebrate their day |06 May 2016
For this year, firefighters from the Airport Fire and Rescue Services and the Seychelles Fire and Rescue Services Agency are joining together to commemorate International Firefighters' Day.
IFFD is celebrated on May 4 under the theme ‘No limit to save life’ with one of its most significant symbols the red and blue ribbon.
Every firefighter and guest who attended a short ceremony held at the Seychelles Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA) yesterday wore the ribbons to honour the sacrifices made by firefighters.
Present were the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Transport Joel Morgan, Minister for Home Affairs Charles Bastienne, chairman of SCAA board Captain David Savy, SCAA chief executive (CEO) Gilbert Faure, chief fire officers (CFO) Andre Morel and Bernard Henriette, senior officers from the two brigades, ex-fire fighters and other guests.
In his opening remarks Mr Henriette said “No limit to save life is a strong theme and cannot be taken lightly since when everyone is running away from the incident scene, firefighters are always the one called upon to go towards the scene.”
He added that no limit to save lives goes as far as numerous blood donations are held whenever a request is made.
“Without a fire service team and equipment, aircraft would not land or takeoff at the Seychelles International Airport,” he said, noting the importance of their work.
Minister Morgan commented that fire fighters dedicate their lives to the protection of life and property, no matter the risks they face. He therefore saluted them for their hard work. He noted the progress which has been made over the years and future investments to be made.
In two months time, he announced, they will receive another fire engine, followed by the acquisition of a brand new firefighting boat, which will increase the facilities needed for extinguishing fires at sea. A completely new fleet of engines to replace the aged ones is also expected.
Mr Morgan added that continuous efforts are being made to train fire service officers both locally and overseas in aviation firefighting and rescues, to ensure that they remain up to date with new developments.
“Those equipment alone will not be of any use if we do not have the manpower, skills and dedication,” he said.
The minister’s speech was followed by Deacon Louis Agathine blessing the servicemen and their engines.
There was also a presentation of certificates to the AFRS staff upon completion of various training courses. Two firefighters received certificates for operation and safety procedures in operating Johnston Runway Sweeper; one firefighter received certificate as driver and pump operator of major foam tender; five completed the basic fire fighter course; 23 others received certificate as fire tender vehicles professional drivers and 18 completed the firemanship course.
Ashnel Denis was the best practical performer while the best overall performer was Marius Esparon, who was also the best academic performer. Since he is currently following a course overseas, his mother Jacqueline Esparon collected his certificate.
On the same day a talk on fire prevention with school children was held at the Seychelles Institute for Teacher’s Education (Site) auditorium by two firefighters from both services.
