May/June 2020 Issue – Fire Buyer

The world has changed dramatically since our last issue. COVID-19 lingers longer than many expected, and leadership failures in some nations remain troubling.

Yet the fire community’s response has been exemplary. Departments have donated surplus PPE to hospitals, carried out socially-distanced welfare checks on vulnerable residents and, despite lockdowns, continued tackling blazes whenever they arise.

In the United States, firefighters are also called to scenes of civil unrest sparked by George Floyd’s murder, sometimes dodging bricks and smoke grenades while trying to protect property and lives.

Deputy Chief Billy Goldfeder’s reminder from a 1960s IAFF slogan – “Firefighters fight fires, not people” – captures their enduring duty: guard the public impartially, even when tensions run high.

While it would be easy for the service to align with fellow first responders, it is heartening to see firefighters place civilians first.

I hope you enjoy this issue of International Fire Buyer and stay safe.