First foreign firefighting volunteers unveiled in Shanghai

The Changning district in Shanghai established its first international firefighting voluntary team of more than 10 expats on Thursday, two days before the 23rd China Youth Volunteer Service Day on March 5, a day that commemorates the late Chinese soldier Lei Feng who devoted his lifetime helping others.

The team consists of expats from such countries as France, the Netherlands and India.

The district has a registered foreign population of more than 80,000, taking up over one-fifth of the city's overall overseas population. It aims to enhance foreigners' attention, participation and recognition of security against fire through the firefighting voluntary crew.

The crew took part in the first fire drill on Thursday, practicing evacuating from a blaze at a restaurant's kitchen in a safe and orderly manner. Guided by firefighters, volunteers covered their mouths and noses with wet towels, stayed low, and evacuated to a safe place in less than two minutes.

Volunteers said they were excited for experiencing the work of a firefighter, which deepened their understanding of the profession.

Jiang Ziyi contributed to the story