Fire rescue vehicle day

Today, and January 7th annually, is fire resuce vehicle day, Shōkyūsha no Hi 消救車の日 in Japanese. It commemorates the world’s first practical “shōkyūsha,” a hybrid vehicle combining both firefighting and ambulance functions.

In recent years, with the aging society and the decrease in the number of households, the number of emergency visits has been on the rise. There was a shortage of ambulances at the turn of the century. In response to this, fire extinguishing vehicles were developed that offer both "life-saving" and "fire extinguishing" functions. By placing the pump room in front of the vehicle, it allows room for emergency space too.

The first unit was deployed in Matsudo City, Chiba, on January 7th 2005, offering a groundbreaking solution to rising emergency demands. Designed to extinguish fires, provide first aid, and transport patients, the shōkyūsha represents Japan’s commitment to innovation in lifesaving technology. The day highlights the importance of rapid response systems and the people who operate them.