05/04/2026
International Firefighters' Day is observed annually on May 4th to honor the dedication, service, and sacrifices of firefighters worldwide. Established on January 4, 1999, following the tragic deaths of five firefighters in the 1998 Linton, Australia wildfire, the day coincides with St. Florian’s Day, the patron saint of firefighters. The day was proposed after Garry Vredeveldt, Christopher Evans, Stuart Davidson, Jason Thomas, and Matthew Armstrong were killed in a sudden wind change while fighting the Linton, Victoria wildfire on December 2, 1998. St. Florian was a Roman army officer who ran a firefighting battalion and is known as a protector against fire. Supporters wear red and blue ribbons, symbolizing the elements of fire and water, respectively. The day serves as a crucial time to recognize both career and volunteer firefighters for their dedication to public safety. Priority 1 is proud to support our brothers and sisters who answer the call today and everyday.