Introduction
Fire services in Japan began as municipalities with functions closely linked to local communities, and have played a vital role in ensuring the safety and security of the public of Japan. FDMA is active in areas ranging from emergency rescue to the handling of hazardous materials, as well as fi re prevention and fi refi ghting. FDMA will expend all efforts to fulfi ll its responsibilities in enhancing the current municipality-based fi re and disaster prevention system that operates around regional fi re defense headquarters and Volunteer Fire Corps, and with the cooperation of residents in local communities.