October 28th sets aside National First Responders Day to honor the men and women who act quickly when an emergency is at hand.
First responders dedicate their lives to saving lives. They are the people who run toward a crisis while the rest of the world flees. According to the Department of Homeland Security, 4.6 million career and volunteer first responders support the communities where they live. They are firefighters, police, emergency medical technicians (EMT), paramedics, and 911 operators. In an emergency, they’re the first on the scene. These dedicated professionals answer the call when a crisis arises, often putting their own lives on the line.
Serving as a national day of gratitude, we pay tribute to their endless hours and around-the-clock service provided to their communities. As one of the most dangerous jobs in the country, the day also pays tribute to the fallen first responders. According to the CDC, 97 firefighters and 155 police officers die each year in the line of duty. Additionally, their rate of occupational injury is higher than the national average. Often, the very people saving lives are our neighbors, friends, and family members. And their families know the price they pay for their dedication to the job.
And even though they are an integral part of our communities, their sacrifices go beyond the hours they work. They face high stress, often daily. The trauma they see wears on them both mentally and physically. Many experience Post Traumatic Stress. Long periods away from family add stress to their relationships, too.
National First Responders Day is also a call for action. First responders deserve our support. Through resources and awareness, first responders can live healthier more productive lives and pass their knowledge and skills on to the next generation of first responders, too.
HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalFirstRespondersDay
The day provides you with an opportunity to recognize a first responder in your life. You might be surprised at how many you know. If their service is voluntary, you may only know about their day job. Offer to treat them to their favorite beverage or buy their next meal. Be supportive of their family, too. More importantly, support programs that improve services to first responders. Connect with a first responder who came to your rescue and thank them. Let them know you appreciate their dedication and sacrifice.
Another way to honor first responders is by signing the petition urging Congress to declare a national day in their honor.
Share your appreciation on social media using #NationalFirstRespondersDay.
NATIONAL FIRST RESPONDERS DAY HISTORY
In 2019, the United States Senate passed a resolution designating October 28th as National First Responders Day to honor the men and women putting their lives on the line.