Secretary for Security Lai Tung-kwok has commended fire and ambulance officers for their courage and professionalism.

He made the compliments while inspecting a graduation parade for 13 station officers, 56 firemen, and 39 ambulancemen at the Fire Services Training School today.

"The Fire Services Department received over 2,000 calls for assistance during the passage of Severe Typhoon Vicente in July. The staff of the department served with determination and dedication during the inclement weather, and handled emergency incidents with strenuous effort."

Mr Lai said the department will continue to recruit devoted personnel, to meet the growing demand for emergency services.

"To provide professional and comprehensive training to fire and ambulance staff, the construction works for the redevelopment of the Fire Services Training School at Tseung Kwan O are in progress for completion in October 2015."