HARTFORD — Governor Ned Lamont is directing US and state flags in Connecticut lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Sunday, October 3, 2021, in recognition of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service. The annual observance honors the sacrifices of firefighters who have died in the line of duty. The nationwide recognition occurs annually during Fire Prevention Week.

Accordingly, since no flag should fly higher than the US flag, all other flags — including state, municipal, corporate, or otherwise — should also be lowered during this same duration of time.

Lamont on Friday called firefighters “a core component of our communities, providing an invaluable service to protect the lives of complete strangers while oftentimes putting their own lives in danger.

“Here in Connecticut, this year alone we lost two firefighters in the line of duty — Ricardo Torres Jr of New Haven Fire Department and Colin McFadden of Burlington Volunteer Fire Department – both of whom gave their lives while responding to residential fires,” the governor further noted. “They are heroes, and their bravery and courage will always be honored. I am thankful to the firefighters who protect our neighborhoods and our people, and I urge every resident of Connecticut to take time on this day of remembrance to reflect upon the bravery of the firefighters who have given their lives in service.”

Lt Governor Susan Bysiewicz said Sunday will be a day to “honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice after dedicating their lives to serving their communities.

In honor of the 40th Annual National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend, I hope we can all take a moment to pay tribute to the lives that were lost. We send love and strength to their families and co-workers,” she added.

Firefighters across the country who died in the line of duty are being honored all weekend during the 40th Annual National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend, October 2-3, by The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. Firefighters Torres Jr and McFadden are two of 215 firefighters whose names will become part of the national memorial this year in honor of their ultimate sacrifices.

Fire Prevention Week is observed each year during the week of October 9 in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire, which began on October 8, 1871, and caused devastating damage. This year’s observance will be Sunday, October 3, through Saturday, October 9.

Since 1922, the National Fire Prevention Association FPA has sponsored the public observance of Fire Prevention Week. This year’s FPW campaign, “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety!” works to educate everyone about the different sounds the smoke and carbon monoxide alarms make.