Honouring current and past firefighters and paying tribute to those who have died in the line of duty, as well as those who continue to rush into danger while others run away, in the commemoration of International Firefighters’ Day on 4 May.

Disaster preparedness is defined by the Namibia National Disaster Risk Management Plan (2011) as the actions taken before a disaster happens to help reduce its impact. In simple terms, it is about planning ahead by putting strategies, policies and systems in place so that communities are better protected. This includes having clear plans and structures that help people respond quickly and effectively, protect lives and property, and handle emergencies when a disaster is about to happen or has already occurred.

 The consequences of disasters are mainly serious damage and loss of life. On the other hand, when disaster strikes, firefighters are required to provide emergency services in order to reduce the losses incurred during such events. Looking at the current state of emergency and disaster risk management for firefighters in Namibia, it is clear that preparedness remains a major concern. A 2021 report by the Ministry of Urban and Rural Development on basic firefighting training highlights these gaps.

The growing number of natural and man-made disasters, from conflicts like the war in the Middle East to local incidents such as structural fires, flash floods, oil and chemical spills, veld fires, and motor vehicle accidents highlights the urgent need for well-prepared firefighters. Recent events, such as the unexpected hailstorm that caused severe disruption in Okahandja, further show how vulnerable communities can be when disasters strike without warning.

For too long, a reactive approach has left many citizens and systems exposed to the dangers and consequences of these events. While the Namibian government has made efforts to emphasise the importance of preparedness, the overall level of readiness remains low. Rapid urbanisation, the expansion of informal settlements, and increasing climate-related risks are all intensifying both the likelihood and impact of disasters across the country.  These realities make one thing clear: Namibia must move beyond reacting to disasters and instead invest in proactive preparedness.

Disaster and emergency preparedness is significant across emergency service occupations, including firefighting, as it involves predicting, mitigating, and planning for disasters and emergencies before, during, and after they occur to reduce their impact.  Since firefighters are among the frontline responders, they are required to respond to any emergency at any given time. 

It is the responsibility of the Namibian institutions mandated to implement disaster and emergency legal frameworks  to ensure effective investment in firefighting preparedness. Firefighters must be equipped with modern equipment, reliable infrastructure, and continuous capacity building to respond to the evolving nature of emergencies. It is not enough to respond when the system is unprepared; when the alarm sounds, firefighters must be ready, alert, and fully equipped with all necessary instruments.

Disaster and emergency preparedness depends on strong coordination among key responders. It works best when fire services, health professionals, law enforcement, and communities come together and work as one. This kind of teamwork should be tested regularly through drills and simulations in order to improve how things run, and ease the pressure on first responders by making sure no one carries the burden alone.

At the heart of all this are firefighters, the unsung heroes doing incredibly demanding work. They face tough physical conditions and are often exposed to deeply distressing situations. We cannot ignore that human side. 

Preparing for disasters should not only be about plans and systems, but also about taking care of the people who respond first.

Firefighters need proper support to protect their well-being, so they can continue to do their jobs with strength and resilience, even after repeated exposure to trauma.

Finally, as we mark this important commemoration, let us shift our perspective by honouring firefighters  with deliberate actions that strengthen preparedness at all levels. To the firefighters, as we prepare for our next assignment in Katima Mulilo, continue saving lives, property, and the environment with enthusiasm and dedication, knowing that your efforts will always be valued.

*Frederika Amutse-Shigwedha is a public servant and President of  Namibia Emergency Services Institute (NESI), who focuses on disaster and emergency risk reduction and public policy. The views expressed are personal and do not necessarily reflect those of the institution the author serves.