S for Housing reviews Fire Services passing-out parade (with photos)

     The Secretary for Housing, Ms Winnie Ho, reviewed the Fire Services passing-out parade for 16 station officers, nine ambulance officers, nine senior firemen/senior firewoman of the Mobilising and Communications Division, 95 firemen and 15 ambulancemen at the Fire and Ambulance Services Academy today (November 22).
 
     Speaking at the parade, Ms Ho expressed her gratitude to the Fire Services Department (FSD) for its full support rendered when the Government enhances speed and efficiency in increasing public housing supply. She appreciated that the FSD has maintained close communication with the Housing Bureau during the stages of approving plans and final works inspections, being target-oriented in serving the public. As a result, public housing residents in need can receive their flat keys earlier. Ms Ho also expressed her hope of continuously working closely with the FSD to ensure that the Basic Housing Units to be launched in future can enhance fire safety standards to benefit grassroots households.
 
     Ms Ho said that she was pleased to learn that the FSD is keeping up with the times by applying technology in operations, such as utilising big data analysis and artificial intelligence in mountain search and rescue, as well as enhancing efficiency and personnel safety in firefighting. She also mentioned that the newly developed Virtual Fire Scene Incident Command Training System, which allows firefighters in training to be free from weather, location and time constraints, enables FSD personnel to exercise decision-making in areas such as command, planning and resources allocation. These measures are in line with the Government's efforts in developing a smart city and smart building.
 
     Ms Ho added that fire and ambulance personnel not only step forward in firefighting and saving lives but also stay keen to participate in the promotion and education on fire safety and rescue. They raise public awareness of fire safety and equip the public to deal effectively with emergencies or contingencies. Such efforts are vital for safeguarding lives and ensuring public safety.
 
     The parade was followed by a demonstration of firefighting and rescue techniques by the graduates. The 144 graduates will be posted to various fire stations, ambulance depots and the Fire Services Communications Centre.