December 27 - Rescuer's Day in Russia: history, traditions, congratulations

Every year on December 27, employees of the Ministry of Emergency Situations, as well as other services involved in the prevention and elimination of emergency situations, celebrate their professional holiday in Russia. In 2024 it falls on Friday. On the history of the Day of the Rescuer and traditions of the celebration read in the material "Izvestia".

Day of the Rescuer in Russia: the history of the holiday on December 27

Day of the Rescuer was established in 1995 by decree of the President of Russia in honor of the establishment of the Russian Rescue Corps (RRC) on December 27, 1990. It was it that became the predecessor of the Ministry of Emergency Situations, officially created in 1994.

Meanwhile, the first attempts to create a state system of assistance to victims of natural disasters, such as floods and fires, appeared in the early XX century. At that time, fire brigades and sanitary detachments operated in the Russian Empire.

After the October Revolution of 1917, there was a need for centralized structures responsible for the elimination of the consequences of disasters, restoration of facilities, as well as ensuring the safety of citizens.

In 1932, the State Fire Service was organized in the USSR, one of the tasks of which was to protect against fires in industrial and residential areas. This structure included firefighting units, which were engaged not only in extinguishing fire, but also in preventing fires, as well as helping the population in emergency situations.

During the Great Patriotic War, rescue functions were assigned to the civil defense (CS), which was engaged in evacuation, firefighting, mine clearance and first aid. In the post-war period, Civil Defense specialists continued their activities to protect the population from various disasters.

In 1961, the USSR Civil Defense Headquarters was established, which became the main structure coordinating activities to protect citizens and territories from the consequences of emergencies. The main task of the headquarters was the preparation and organization of CS activities, including evacuation, assistance in possible natural and man-made disasters.

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In the 1970s and 1980s, the USSR actively developed the system of rescue services. New training methods were introduced, specialized squads were created to eliminate the consequences of emergencies at industrial facilities. During this period, regular drills and exercises were held to practice actions in the conditions of possible accidents at nuclear power plants and large industrial enterprises. After the Chernobyl accident in 1986, the need to develop such services became particularly urgent.

In 1994, the Ministry of the Russian Federation for Civil Defense, Emergencies and Elimination of Consequences of Natural Disasters (EMERCOM of Russia) was established. This agency became the successor of the rescue structures of the Soviet Union and united various units engaged in the prevention and elimination of emergency situations. EMERCOM of Russia became one of the first ministries in the world to specialize in dealing with emergencies.

The ministry is vested with broad powers, including organizing rescue operations, conducting preventive measures, responding to natural disasters, man-made disasters and environmental threats. It includes firefighting units, search and rescue services, civil defense services, and emergency rescue squads. Today it includes units equipped with high-tech equipment, modern machinery and professionally trained specialists.

Since the 2000s, EMERCOM has been actively involved in international rescue operations and humanitarian missions, sending brigades to assist in the elimination of the consequences of earthquakes, floods and fires in different countries of the world.

Day of the Rescuer in Russia: how to celebrate in 2024

At the state level, solemn meetings are held on this day, where the leadership of the Ministry of Emergency Situations summarizes the results of the year, awards distinguished employees and veterans of the service with orders, medals and diplomas.

Another tradition is laying wreaths at monuments and memorials in honor of rescuers who died in the line of duty. Their contribution to the safety and well-being of the country is not forgotten, and this day is a reminder of their sacrifice.

In major cities, exhibitions of equipment, demonstrations and displays of rescue operations are organized. These events allow citizens to familiarize themselves with the work of rescuers, to see in action the techniques and equipment used by EMERCOM specialists.

Schools and universities organize educational events for young people, lessons and meetings where rescuers talk about their work, safety rules and the basics of first aid. In addition to practical skills, young people get the opportunity to learn more about the profession and what qualities are required for this job.

Congratulations on Rescuer's Day

Day of the Rescuer symbolizes respect for the profession, which requires exceptional endurance and selflessness. The holiday is an occasion to express gratitude to those who choose this difficult path. Here are a few examples of how you can do this:

"Dear rescuers and employees of the Ministry of Emergency Situations! We congratulate you on your professional holiday! Your courage, efficiency and selflessness save people's lives every day. Thank you for your labor, dedication and endurance in any conditions. We wish you good health, success in service and peaceful everyday life!"

"Dear rescuers! You stand guard over our safety and are always ready to come to the rescue. We thank you for your heroism and dedication. Let the work bring respect and gratitude of people, and in life there will be more calm and happy moments!"

"We congratulate you on the Day of the Rescuer! Your work requires not only knowledge and experience, but also real courage. We wish you confidence, success in your hard work and prosperity for your families!"

Earlier Izvestia told about the history and traditions of the Day of the Federal Security Service of Russia.