Family of deceased fireman Yau Yiu-man given government financial assistance

The government announced on Tuesday that a sum of HK$6 million under the Financial Assistance Scheme for Family Members of Those Who Sacrifice Their Lives to Save Others will be granted to the family members of the deceased Fireman Yau Yiu-man.

The late Yau sacrificed his life on January 19, 2024, while attending a rescue operation for a trapped female driver in a traffic accident at Penny's Bay on Lantau Island.

He fainted during the rescue operation and was pronounced dead after failing to be resuscitated, passing away at the age of 49.

The Chairman of the Committee on "Financial Assistance for Family Members of those Who Sacrifice Their Lives to Save Others", also the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Chris Sun Yuk-han, approved the grant and paid tribute to the late Yau for his gallant act.

Sun said that despite all the known risks, Yau vividly demonstrated selflessness during the rescue operation. He spared no effort in saving lives, which commands their greatest respect.

The welfare chief also deeply mourned the loss of such an excellent and devoted public servant and said that the grant represents the government's recognition of the late Yau's exceptional courage and professionalism of the highest order.

He hoped that the financial assistance could provide some relief to his family members.

The scheme, which was set up in January 2002 will provide financial assistance to family members of those who lost their lives while attempting to save or protect others.

Under the scheme, the amount of financial assistance for each approved application is worked out according to a formula according to the age and normal retirement age of the deceased and the prevailing median monthly employment earnings, with the minimum and maximum levels currently set at HK$6 million and HK$12 million, respectively.