Fire Service Day is observed in Belarus every July 25, commemorating the establishment of the fire department in the Minsk Governorate in 1863, which marks the official birthday of the fire service in the country. This professional holiday recognizes the hard work and dedication of firefighters, who are responsible for fire fighting, saving lives, and protecting property. The day was unofficially celebrated until 1994, when the Parliament of Belarus officially proclaimed it as a holiday. Various events are organized in the capital, Minsk, to honor the firefighters and express gratitude for their dangerous work. The fire service in Belarus is currently managed by the Ministry of Emergency Situations, having been transferred from the Ministry of Internal Affairs at the end of 1998.