Hornchurch and Upminster MP Julia Lopez has paid tribute to the men and women of the emergency services in Havering as the UK marks Emergency Services Day on 9 September. The day, also known as 999 Day, honours the work and sacrifice of NHS staff, police officers, firefighters, paramedics, search and rescue teams and call handlers across the country.
The day begins at 9am with the raising of the 999 Day flag followed by a two-minute silence in memory of more than 7,500 personnel who have lost their lives in the line of duty over the past 200 years.ins at 9am with the raising of the 999 Day flag followed by a two-minute silence in memory of more than 7,500 personnel who have lost their lives in the line of duty over the past 200 years.
During her time as the Member of Parliament for Hornchurch & Upminster, Mrs Lopez has worked closely with all branches of the emergency services, seeing the extraordinary work they do up close.
999 Day is an opportunity to promote the responsible use of emergency services, raise awareness of life-saving skills and encourage people to consider careers or volunteer roles within the services.
Speaking about the day, Mrs Lopez said:
“During my time as an MP I’ve done lots of work with our local emergency services, including a morning shift with our local ambulance crews last winter, walkabouts with the local police during their operations, as well as visiting our local fire brigade earlier this summer.
“They do such a tough job, often putting themselves in harm's way and maintaining their professionalism in the most challenging of circumstances. Today is about recognising that dedication and remembering those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.”
The campaign encourages members of the public to take two minutes at 9am to reflect on the work of the emergency services and to share messages of thanks on social media using #999Day.
