In the 1970s, the International Telegraph and Telephone Consultative Committee recommended that countries around the world use the number "119" for fire alarm calls in accordance with the requirements of international standardization management, so as to avoid mutual interference between fire alarm calls starting with "0" and other communication services. Moreover, fires have sudden characteristics, and to ensure smooth communication, they should be incorporated into the special service starting with "11."

Around November 9, the weather is dry and fires would easily occur. November 9 also corresponds to the fire alarm phone number 119. In order to increase the public's awareness of fire safety and make "119" more deeply rooted in the minds of the general public, the Chinese Ministry of Public Security launched the "119" fire safety campaign in some provinces and municipalities directly under the central government in 1992, and designated November 9 as the "National Fire Safety Day."

On November 9, 2023, the 32nd National Fire Safety Day, the Chinese pay homage to firefighters who risked their lives to protect property from fire.