BANGOR – To reduce the possibility of firefighter injuries or death, Bangor Fire Department is participating this week in the 2007 International Fire and EMS Safety Stand Down.

The stand down takes a close look at firefighter training and equipment to ensure all are up to safety codes. In addition to checking their gear, Bangor firefighters also will inspect all the emergency equipment and take part in a daylong series of safety training classes.

In 2006, 105 firefighters perished in the line of duty nationwide and 53 already have died this year, including the nine who died Monday in a warehouse fire in Charleston, S.C.