Firefighters deserve more than sympathy

A photo of a fireman having a rest after a long-distance running exercise in Fuzhou, Fujian province, which shows his back abraded and bleeding because of his breathing equipment, went viral after the man's colleagues posted it on social media, with many people expressing their sympathy. Beijing News comments:

The photo shows the hard training that prepares firefighters for emergencies.

The fireman, in his mid-20s, marveled at the sensation caused by the photo, as he thinks it was just a normal part of firemen's training, and he took it for granted.

While showing concern, people should consider the practical problems faced by firefighters. There have long been calls for more professional firefighters. And in accordance with this year's institutional reform plan issued by the central authorities in March, the fire departments are to be under the administration of the newly formed Emergency Management Ministry, and all firefighters will become permanently employed public employees paid by local governments. In the context of their professionalism, it will be conducive to ensuring they all receive comprehensive training and gain practical experience to reduce the sacrifice made by firefighters. At the same time, it also means better occupational treatment, development prospects and professional honor.

But although the central authorities have unveiled the reform plan, there is still a long way to go for local governments to transform it into action, especially in places where the government bears a heavy financial burden.

To be a qualified firefighter requires not only bravery and dedication, but also strict vocational education and training. But although some firefighters are permanent employees, many are on temporary contracts. So even though they may be doing the same dangerous work and undertaking the same responsibilities, their incomes and welfare are different. Even the compensation given to the families of firefighters killed in the line of duty is different.

Hopefully, the popularity of the firemen's photo can urge the central and local authorities to make joint efforts to accelerate the reform, so that all firefighters receive the training they need and the treatment they deserve. This will help promote the professionalism of this special and important profession.