Salute to First Responders 

America’s first responders are on the front lines working to save lives and protect communities across the nation. During the month of May, there are several opportunities to recognize the hard work and life-saving sacrifices of fire service, law enforcement, emergency medical services, and our armed services. Below is a list of May events to honor public safety. 

May 4 marks International Firefighters Day, first observed in 1999 after five firefighters died while trying to contain a wildfire in Victoria, Australia. It includes an international “Sound Off” on the first Sunday in May when, at noon local time each year, fire sirens blare for 30 seconds worldwide followed by a minute of silence in memory of those who have died in the line of duty. 

May 6 is National Wildfire Community Preparedness Day. Everyone is encouraged to plan and participate in risk reduction and wildfire preparedness activities to make their homes and communities safer. These efforts work to protect fire service personnel and the communities they serve. 

May 13-19 is National Police Week. In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which that date falls as Police Week. The recognition offers honor, remembrance, and peer support, while allowing law enforcement, survivors, and citizens to gather and pay homage to those who gave their lives in the line of duty. 

May 20-26 is National EMS Week. Fifty years ago, President Gerald Ford authorized EMS Week to celebrate EMS practitioners and the important work they do in our nation’s communities. The goal of the proclamation was and continues to be to recognize and improve emergency medical care across the country. 

The month of May is Military Appreciation Month. It is a time designated to honor and recognize the contributions, sacrifices, and service of the members of the armed forces, past and present. 

First responders daily put their lives on the line in efforts to protect our communities. Throughout this month, we encourage you to take time to acknowledge the men and women who work or have worked in these fields and thank them for their service.