Firefighting is more than just physical strength and bravery. As a practical science, it demands extensive experience and skill. A firefighter with ten or twenty years of experience will naturally be more capable and resilient in high-pressure situations compared to someone who has only been in the profession for one or two years.
On the afternoon of May 1st, a fire broke out at a high-rise residential building on Longwu Road in Shanghai. During the operation, firefighters Qian Lingyun and Liu Jie were knocked off the 13th floor by a sudden surge of hot air. They lost their lives while trying to save others. Since the start of this year, four firefighters have died in Shanghai alone. Their sacrifice has deeply moved the public.
The deaths of these two young men are heartbreaking. According to reports, they were seen holding hands as they fell from the window. It appears one of them lost focus and slipped, while the other tried to catch him. This touching moment has resonated with people across the country.
Firefighters today face one of the most dangerous jobs in the world. In recent years, numerous news reports have highlighted the tragic deaths of firefighters, many of whom are still very young. For example, Qian Lingyun was only 23 years old, and Liu Jie was just 20. A 2013 report from “People’s Public Security†revealed that since 2006, the average age of firefighters who have died in service nationwide is 24, with some as young as 18.
Despite such heavy losses, it's not inevitable. In countries like Norway, there have been no firefighter deaths for nearly 70 years since World War II. Similarly, in many developed nations, although firefighters still face risks, their mortality rate is significantly lower than in some other regions.
The key difference lies in professional management and better working conditions. Firefighters in these countries enjoy high welfare benefits, including competitive salaries and comprehensive insurance. In New York, for instance, a firefighter with five years of experience earns an average of over $99,000 per year—more than double the salary of a local university professor. These benefits allow firefighters to retire comfortably, which contributes to long-term stability and expertise within the force.
Professionalization brings clear advantages. Firefighting is not just about courage; it requires experience, training, and refined skills. A seasoned firefighter can handle emergencies more effectively and remain calm under pressure. However, in China, the situation is quite different.
Many firefighters today are temporary workers, often underpaid and overworked. The current system makes it difficult to attract and retain skilled personnel. Most active firefighters are also temporary, serving only two years before leaving. This results in a constant turnover of inexperienced staff, making it hard to build a stable, professional team.
Firefighters must deal with not only fires but also various rescue operations, which places high demands on their capabilities. Professionalizing the force would help retain experienced personnel, accumulate knowledge, and improve overall performance. While professionalization requires significant investment, it is essential for public safety. The cost is justified when considering the reduction in human and material losses.
After the tragic incident in Hengyang in 2003, where 20 firefighters lost their lives, public demand for professionalization grew. Although some areas like Shandong are starting to implement full-time firefighting systems, most firefighters are still part-time or temporary. To ensure better protection and treatment for those who risk their lives daily, the professionalization of the fire service must be prioritized.
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