The fire prevention and rescue service is one of the most dangerous and hazardous professions. Officers in this field constantly face life-threatening situations while carrying out their duties, be it firefighting or rescuing those in peril. From building collapses to near-death experiences, these brave men and women remain steadfast, always putting the lives and property of citizens above all else.

Senior Lieutenant Nguyen Hong Linh in a propaganda session on escape skills organised for pupils in Hai Chau District.

Among these courageous officers is Senior Lieutenant Nguyen Hong Linh who works in the Fire Prevention, Fighting and Rescue Police Division under the Da Nang Police Department. He has become a shining example of dedication and bravery. Choosing and loving the fire prevention and rescue service profession means being constantly prepared for lurking dangers and ready to respond at a moment’s notice, even when it requires long periods away from home on duty.

For Linh and his comrades, the sound of an alarm is a familiar call to action. No matter the time of day, they rush to the scene as soon as they receive an emergency call, always prioritising the safety of people and society over everything else.

"For a fire prevention and rescue service officer, sometimes time is measured in seconds, because any delay can result in severe consequences. Therefore, we always place the safety of lives and property above all else. The peace and safety of the public have become the very essence of our existence," Linh shared.

Recently, when news broke of a young man attempting suicide on Thuan Phuoc Bridge, Linh and his team were immediately dispatched. Upon arrival, they saw the young man standing on the edge between life and death, his eyes reflecting a storm of pain, despair, and helplessness. Linh knew he had to act swiftly and delicately to save the man’s life. In those tense moments, Linh built a psychological bridge with the young man, offering reassurance and hope. "In such situations, sometimes just a look or the right words at the right time can save a life," Linh said. He understood that his actions needed to be both quick and precise to avoid further distressing the individual.

After calming and comforting the young man, Linh noticed a slight change. Though still silent, the young man’s eyes had softened, and it was clear he was now torn between giving up and holding on. Sensing this, Linh and his team moved closer, donning safety gear, while Linh continued telling stories of people who had overcome hardship and regained hope. Finally, in a tense and breathless moment, the young man chose life. The crowd behind them erupted in relief and joy as Linh and his team brought the man to safety. After the incident, Linh and his colleagues returned to their half-eaten dinner, ready to respond to the next call.

Every year, Linh and his team conduct numerous public safety awareness sessions, teaching thousands of students, workers, and residents vital survival skills in the event of fires or explosions. Over the years, Linh has participated in countless rescue missions, saving people from complex situations like traffic accidents, flash floods, and building collapses. "The proactive efforts of citizens, along with support from local fire prevention groups, are crucial in mitigating damage before professional help arrives," he noted.

In addition to his professional duties, Linh is also actively involved in humanitarian activities. Notably, he has donated blood over 20 times, earning him recognition from the Chairman of the Da Nang People's Committee. His dedication, courage, and willingness to help those in need have made him a beloved figure among the people. This bond of trust and admiration is the foundation upon which Linh and his team carry out their vital mission of protecting the peace and safety of the public.

Reporting by M. LE, B. LAM - Translating by TRUC VY