The Ithaca Journal's editorial today reflects on the sacrifices of firefighters, particularly volunteer firefighters who accept risk without pay. While the Journal notes that deaths are thankfully rare (seven nationwide in 2003), "each of us ought to pause a moment today and appreciate the sacrifices and dedication of people such as Bret Neff."
Update: The Journal issued a correction to that editorial, noting that the number of deaths was for New York State only, not the entire country. Far more detail on the fatal hazards of firefighting is available from the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial. (Thanks to Duane Testut of the Varna Volunteer Fire Company for the links.)
Posted by simon at February 26, 2004 8:21 AM in emergency services