Illustration from the U.S. Forest Service
Firefighters' Day
May 4
Other Scottish Country Dances for this Day
Today's Musings, History & Folklore
The Fire Hose Reel
International FireFighters' Day, May 4, is a day to thank all firefighters for their extraordinary commitment, exceptional courage and for their selflessness in helping protect us and our environment.
Saint Florian, the patron saint of firefighters, is also another symbolic element to International Fire Fighters Day. St. Florian was a patron from Noricum, Rome in 300 AD, who was said to be one of the first commanding fire fighters of an actual battalion. As legend states, St. Florian saved an entire village engulfed in flames using just a single bucket of water. Legend also states, because of this act St. Florian is known as the protector of those who have come in danger of fire. The duties St. Florian performed for his province are the same duties that fire fighters around the world perform every day—with the same dedication and braveries. On May 4, St. Florian is globally recognized and honored and is also known as the day of St. Florian. Therefore, International Fire Fighters Day was chosen to be honored on May 4 in honor of the saint.
One of the most iconic campaigns and figures used to raise awareness of fire safety and dancer is Smokey the Bear. Created in 1944, the Smokey Bear Wildfire Prevention campaign is the longest-running public service advertising campaign in U.S. history, educating generations of Americans about their role in preventing wildfires.
Learn more about one of the most recognized rangers in the United States, Smokey the Bear and his famous motto, by clicking the poster.
"Remember... Only YOU Can Prevent Forest Fires."
