Honorary stamps for fire-fighters officially launched
The South African Post Office has launched a limited edition set of stamps during a ceremony hosted by Ekurhuleni, in Bedfordview, on July 2.
The eight stamps honour and celebrate fire-fighters, those who are the unsung heroes and heroines who put their own lives on the line to save the lives of the South African citizens.
Despite the commemorative stamps being launched on July 2, they have been available at selected SA Post Offices since June 26.
Each stamp costs R3.30 and can be used as postage on a standard letter.
According to the metro spokesperson, Themba Gadebe, the artwork for the set of eight stamps was done by Jaco Botha, a 21-year-old third year graphic design student at the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT).
The TUT graphic design department incorporated the stamp design project into their curriculum.
The design-students were required to create images that reflect different aspects of fire fighting and its sub-sections, as well as the history of fire fighting in South Africa.
The Disaster and Emergency Management Services of Ekurhuleni provided guidance in this regard and helped to ensure that the fire-fighters’ uniforms, vehicles and equipment were depicted accurately on the stamps.
The back of the stamp sheet contains guidelines on fire safety at home, including hints on avoiding fires and what action to take in the event of a fire.
“The role of fire-fighters – our real-life action heroes – is to protect lives and property.
“No matter what country you live and work in, fire-fighters work together against one common enemy – fire,” said Gadebe.
“However, fire-fighters are not only trained to put out fires, they are also trained as paramedics and rescuers who assist during emergencies, including local and national disasters such as floods, earthquakes, and traffic accidents.”
The first image on the stamp sheet depicts a 1920s Dennis fire engine used in South Africa at the time, with a typical fire station from that era in the background; while the second stamp shows a typical modern day fire engine and fire station.
The rest of the stamps show modern firefighters in action.
The stamps can be ordered online at www.virtualpostoffice.co.za, or you can send an e-mail to sastamps@postoffice.co.za.
Only 20 000 sheets were printed and for this reason, the stamps will be available at selected post offices..
