### Tijuana Fire Department Celebrates 102nd Anniversary
The Tijuana Fire Department marked its 102nd anniversary on August 22, 2024, coinciding with the National Firefighter Day. The celebrations began dramatically as firefighters battled a significant blaze at a mechanic workshop in the Aeropuerto neighborhood.
“Officially, we started yesterday with a morning serenade at the central Fire Station. We had a major fire in the Aeropuerto area and celebrated National Firefighter Day by doing what we do best – putting out fires,” said Rafael Carrillo Venegas, the Director of Tijuana Fire Department.
The morning festivities included a traditional Mass at 10:00 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Parish, attended by the fire department personnel and José Fernando Sánchez, the Municipal Secretary of Public Safety and Citizen Protection. At noon, a commemorative ceremony took place at the Grand Hotel Tijuana, with various authorities in attendance.
“The emotion is palpable today as we celebrate National Firefighter Day. My deepest respect goes to the men and women who make up this institution, consistently performing their duties with utmost professionalism while prioritizing safety to mitigate any risks,” added Carrillo Venegas.
During the event, the department received two state-of-the-art equipment designed to reduce the incidence of cancer among firefighters. Tijuana Fire Department is one of the few globally equipped with such advanced technology.
“It is a beloved and noble institution. We will always be the peaceful and diligent face of the municipality. Congratulations on the exemplary work you’ve done, elevating Tijuana’s Fire Department to continental renown,” he expressed.
Municipal Public Safety Secretary emphasized the rigorous daily efforts of firefighters, acknowledging their extensive duties to provide for their families and keep the city safe despite their salaries.
“Currently, we need to address the discrepancy in the remuneration of firefighters. All Tijuana firefighters exert the same effort and sacrifice, regardless of their employment status, and this is an issue that must be rectified to dignify their salaries,” he noted.
Alejandro Bustamante Gutiérrez, former president of the Pro-Firefighters Association, highlighted that over the past three years, the firefighters have received 11 million pesos in donations to strengthen equipment and stations.
The event also saw the presence of Rafael Leyva Pérez, Municipal Trustee; José Refugio Cañada García, Secretary of Government; José Guillermo Aldrete Cazarin, General Secretary of the Bureaucrats’ Union; and Pedro Perfecto Lugo, Deputy Operational Director of Tijuana Fire Department.
### A Generational Profession
Fernando Vitela, a supervisor at the fire department, shared that his inspiration to become a firefighter came from his family’s legacy in the profession – his four brothers, father, brother-in-law, and nephews.
“I was inspired by my family. Everyone in my family is a firefighter; we can call it a dynasty. I am the youngest and have 32 years of service pay and 4 years as a volunteer,” he remarked.
Vitela emphasizes the vocational drive that keeps them going. He encourages anyone inclined to help to join the department. “Our vocation is to help, serve, and be valuable to our city, Tijuana. This is how we see it as a family,” he concluded.
Lizeth Soriano has been part of the institution for nine years, after four years of volunteering. Initially qualified as a lawyer, she found security in her second home at the fire department.
“Each service constantly provides feedback. It is not just about earning a salary; it’s about working and helping the community first-hand. We handle incidents from garbage fires to individuals in crisis. It’s rewarding to contribute a bit to society,” she concluded.
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### Additional News: Firefighter’s Efforts Acknowledged Nationwide
In related news, firefighters across the country were honored for their unwavering bravery and commitment. Recently, the National Firefighters’ Union highlighted the annual increase in fire-related incidents and the growing demands on the profession, calling for better safety protocols and advanced training programs.
Moreover, several municipalities nationwide are now considering budget increases to improve equipment and healthcare benefits for firefighters to ensure their well-being and operational efficiency. These steps are seen as crucial in supporting the dedicated men and women who risk their lives to protect the public every day.