National First Responders Day is a special day set aside to honor the brave men and women who are first on the scene during emergencies. These dedicated professionals include firefighters, police officers, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), paramedics, and 911 operators who risk their lives to save others.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: October 28th
- Tagged as: A day of gratitude for first responders
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalFirstRespondersDay
- When was it founded?: 2017
- Who founded it?: U.S. Congress with support from Andrew Collier (brother of Sean Collier, an officer killed during the Boston Marathon bombing)
History of National First Responders Day
National First Responders Day was established to recognize the service and sacrifice of emergency personnel across the country. The day gained momentum after the tragic death of Officer Sean Collier during events related to the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing. His family, particularly his brother Andrew Collier, advocated for a national day of recognition for first responders.
After a six-year push, the day became official in 2019 when a bipartisan resolution passed in both the Senate and House of Representatives. Senators Elizabeth Warren, Tom Cotton, Ron Johnson, Gary Peters, Jacky Rosen, and James Lankford spearheaded the effort in the Senate, while Representatives Elijah Cummings and Rosa DeLauro sponsored the bill in the House.
In 2022, President Joe Biden issued a White House Proclamation officially naming October 28th as National First Responders Day, further cementing its importance in the national calendar.
Timeline
- 1966: A federal study identified the need for better emergency medical services
- 1970s: Advanced emergency medical care begins developing outside hospitals
- 2013: Boston Marathon bombing occurs, leading to advocacy for first responder recognition
- 2017: Congress designates October 28th as National First Responders Day
- 2019: The resolution officially passes in both houses of Congress
- 2022: President Biden issues a White House Proclamation for the day
Dates by Next Year (2025 to 2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | October 28 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | October 28 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | October 28 | Thursday |
| 2028 | October 28 | Saturday |
| 2029 | October 28 | Sunday |
| 2030 | October 28 | Monday |
How National First Responders Day is Observed
Communities across the country celebrate this day by showing appreciation for their local first responders. Many people bring treats to fire stations, police departments, and EMS facilities. Some towns hold parades or special ceremonies to honor these heroes. Others use social media to share stories and gratitude using the hashtag #NationalFirstRespondersDay.
The day also serves as a call to action, encouraging support for programs that improve services to first responders, especially those addressing mental health challenges that come with their high-stress jobs.
Fun Facts About First Responders
According to the Department of Homeland Security, approximately 4.6 million career and volunteer first responders support communities across the United States. These brave individuals respond to emergencies 24/7, often putting themselves in harm’s way.
A fire department responds to a fire every 24 seconds in America, while Emergency Medical Services care for about 22 million patients annually. Approximately 240 million 911 calls are made in the U.S. each year.
Sadly, about 100 firefighters die in the line of duty each year, highlighting the dangerous nature of their profession.
Quiz
- When is National First Responders Day celebrated?
- Who is considered a first responder?
- In what year did Congress designate October 28th as National First Responders Day?
- How many first responders are there in the United States?
(Answers: 1. October 28th, 2. Firefighters, police officers, EMTs, paramedics, and 911 operators, 3. 2017, 4. Approximately 4.6 million)
FAQs
Why was October 28th chosen for National First Responders Day?
The date was selected through the legislative process when Congress designated the day in 2017, supported by advocacy from the family of fallen officer Sean Collier.
Is National First Responders Day different from National Emergency Responders Day?
Yes. National Emergency Responders Day is observed on September 11th to honor those who responded to the 9/11 terrorist attacks, while National First Responders Day on October 28th honors all first responders.
How can I show appreciation to first responders?
You can thank them personally, provide meals or treats to local stations, support programs that help first responders, or simply acknowledge their service on social media using #NationalFirstRespondersDay.
Q: Why is National Responders Day important?
A: It raises awareness about the sacrifices made by first responders and encourages communities to support their mental and physical well-being.
Q: How can I participate in National First Responders Day?
A: You can participate by thanking local first responders, sharing your appreciation on social media using the hashtag #NationalFirstRespondersDay, or supporting organizations that aid first responders.
Importance of National First Responders Day
National First Responders Day reminds us of the incredible sacrifices these heroes make daily. First responders face high risks virtually every time they step out onto the front lines, making it one of America’s most dangerous career paths.
Beyond physical dangers, many first responders experience mental health challenges from the trauma they witness. This day helps raise awareness about these issues and promotes support for resources that improve their well-being.
The day also gives these dedicated professionals a moment to feel appreciated for their selfless service and allows communities to express gratitude for those who are always ready to answer the call when emergencies arise.
Related Observances
- National Police Week (May)
- International Firefighters’ Day (May 4)
- National EMS Week (May)
- National Emergency Responders Day (September 11)
- National 911 Dispatchers Day (April 14)
- National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day (January 9)