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The Chief Executive, Mr C Y Leung, today (August 1) visited the headquarters of the Fire Services Department (FSD) in Tsim Sha Tsui to learn more about the department's work in fire-fighting, fire protection, emergency rescue and emergency ambulance services.
Accompanied by the Director of Fire Services, Mr Chan Chor-kam, the Chief Executive visited the Fire Services Communications Centre and was briefed by duty officers on how the centre mobilised fire-fighting and ambulance resources and handled complaints about fire hazards and dangerous goods.
The Chief Executive learned that the department received numerous calls for assistance during the passage of Typhoon Vicente, including 436 fire calls, 599 calls for special services and 1 134 calls for emergency ambulance services. He commended FSD staff for their strenuous efforts in protecting the lives and property of citizens from fire and calamities.
"The operational staff of Fire Stream and ambulance personnel served with determination and dedication during inclement weather while the staff at the Fire Services Communications Centre mobilised fire engines and ambulances and deployed manpower in the most effective and efficient manner. They served the community with devotion and lived up to public expectations," Mr Leung said.
FSD officers briefed the Chief Executive on the equipment of firefighters and ambulancemen, including the PBI Matrix structural fire-fighting protective suit and new breathing apparatus for firefighters, which meet international safety standards, as well as digital handheld radios for firefighters and paramedic equipment for ambulancemen. Mr Leung noted that FSD management has continued to procure the most advanced and appropriate protective gear and equipment for front-line staff to ensure their safety and efficiency in fire-fighting, rescue and emergency ambulance operations.
The Chief Executive also learned about services provided by the department to meet the developing needs of society. They include the establishment of a High Angle Rescue Team specialising in handling complicated high angle rescue in buildings that keep scaling new heights in Hong Kong, fire inspection and publicity to enhance fire safety of old buildings, as well as fire safety policies and regulations that improve business friendliness for small and medium-sized enterprises without compromising fire safety.
The Chief Executive met with front-line officers to gain a better understanding of the challenges they face in their work. He commended their outstanding performance and encouraged officers to continue to uphold their efficient and quality services in protecting the people of Hong Kong.
Ends/Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Issued at HKT 12:51
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