Declaring February 14, 2001 as "Firefighters Recognition Day."

WHEREAS, Philadelphia Firefighters are in the front lines of defense against a wide variety of disasters that threaten life and property. Thousands of citizens owe their lives and safety to the dedication and professionalism of our City's twenty-four hundred fire personnel; and

WHEREAS, In 2000, the Philadelphia Fire Department responded to over two hundred forty-two thousand and three hundred (242,300) emergency incidents. Fires in general declined in 2000 as compared with the ten-year average preceding 2000, and the Department attributes this to a free smoke detector program, increased publicity, and fire safety announcements; and

WHEREAS, Because of the hard work and dedication of the City's firefighters, more and more Philadelphians are able to defend against the tragedy of fire; and

WHEREAS, We recognize the courage and commitment with which Fire Department Personnel perform their duties, despite the dangers, stress and frustration which are their frequent companions. We encourage all Philadelphians to take this opportunity to thank firefighters and fire paramedics for the excellent job they do on our behalf; now therefore

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That we hereby express our gratitude to all the firefighters and fire paramedics in our City, and declare February 14, 2001 as Firefighters Recognition Day in Philadelphia.

RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to George Casey, President of the Philadelphia Firefighters Union, as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body.

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