A big part of any community is those who serve to protect it, whether it’s saving a family from a house fire, attending to an accident, or rushing an injured civilian to critical care, first responders are an important part of society and often put their lives on the lines to save others.
Additionally, responders like firefighters, also put their health at risk to stop fires or rescue people from very dangerous situations. Even though they have protective gear, prolonged exposure to chemicals and smoke can still affect them.
It’s a big risk to save and assist others.
In fact, first responders who assisted in the rescue efforts during the 9/11 terror attacks are now being diagnosed with diseases such as, cancer, mesothelioma, and other respiratory problems. This is because soot, ashes, toxins, and other dangerous material can get into their repository system and even absorb into their skin.
The sad reality of a job like this is a dangerous one. However, many continue to work these stressful, and physically demanding jobs for the betterment of their community. While many of us have the privilege to work in the safe environment of a typical work space, they work around the clock to keep society functioning.
Even moreso, first responders reach out past their communities to provide aid in risky situations. With all of the natural disasters that happened this past month, many of them have traveled very far to provide aid and assist the sick and injured.
Committed to community outreach.
Attending to the sick and injured aren’t the only things these wonderful people do. In fact, many of them spend their free time giving back to their community through local events and programs. Police, firefighters, and EMT service members all go out of their way to assist with the safety during public events.
If you’ve attended a fall festival recently, you’ve probably seen some of them around guiding traffic and on standby in case of an emergency. However, their commitment is all year round. In fact, our local first responders gave a lot during the local Easter Egg Hunt and Flag Day event, and we’re forever thankful for it.
Many of them also take the time to visit schools to teach children about the dangers of certain actions and what to do in an emergency.
How can you make their jobs easier?
Reach out to your local fire or police department to see if they’re working with any local charities or events. Many of them don’t mind the help, and would be happy to see others giving back.
Additionally, ask to see if they need new gear, equipment, or clothing. New items like these can be expensive, and it wouldn’t hurt to start your own charity drive to raise money for equipment. Of course, be sure to communicate this with them first!
Another way you can give back to our first responders is after an emergency, such as a fire. Offer first responders essentials, such as water or another cooling drink. Many of them have to work quickly in extremely hot temperatures or dangerous environments. This can lead to stress and dehydration, so if you’re around and have water, show your appreciation for their efforts.
However, don’t get in the way during an emergency. Time is crucial and first responders need to focus on saving victims. Only offer essentials when it’s safe to do so, and they aren’t actively working.
Please remember to pull over.
This may be common knowledge, however, many drivers don’t always obey this. Whenever you see flashing lights or hear sirens, it’s your duty to pull over. This way emergency vehicles can safely pass you and attend to a critical emergency like an accident or house fire.
Additionally, when emergency vehicles are present on the side of the highway, you need to merge over. This ensures victims and first responders aren’t injured by debris or traveling vehicles. These people put themselves in stressful situations daily, so please make it easier for them by moving your vehicle out of the way.
Remember to be thankful.
The things we take for granted such as convenience or safety, are because of our first responders. They work around the clock, on holidays, in dangerous weather, and uncertain conditions to ensure everything runs smoothly.
It is a selfless act to put one’s life at risk to save another, and for that our insurance agency thanks all of our first responders. You make our communities safer, provide assistance to those who need it, and ultimately save lives. Thank you.
