Carbondale Reporter

Every year on October 28th, National First Responders Day is observed to honor the firefighters, police officers, paramedics, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and other emergency personnel who risk their lives to protect and serve communities. This day serves as a reminder of their invaluable contributions and sacrifices.

Rep. Dan Ugaste (R-Geneva) emphasized the importance of acknowledging first responders: “We must always recognize and pay respect to our first responders. These courageous people risk their lives on a daily basis for our safety and security, and it is essential that we provide them with the support and resources they need.”

National First Responders Day was officially recognized by Congress in 2017. The role of first responders has become more visible in recent years, especially during crises like the storm surge damage in the Southeastern United States.

According to FEMA, there are an estimated 4.6 million career and volunteer first responders across the United States. This includes approximately 1.1 million firefighters, mostly volunteers, about 800,000 police officers, and over 240,000 paramedics and EMTs. They respond to approximately 240 million calls annually.

First responders face high levels of stress due to their work environment. Studies indicate they experience higher rates of stress-related conditions compared to the general population. A report by SAMHSA states that 30% of first responders develop behavioral health conditions such as depression and PTSD.

To address these challenges, several programs have been established to provide mental health resources for first responders. These initiatives aim to reduce stigma around seeking help.

Volunteer firefighting districts face recruitment challenges due to multiple responsibilities potential volunteers may have. In Illinois, the Volunteer Emergency Worker Credit offers a $500 non-refundable tax credit as an incentive for volunteering as firefighters.

House Republicans are advocating for policies like this credit to encourage volunteerism in emergency services. Rep. Dan Ugaste supports these efforts as a former firefighter himself.

Promoting appreciation for first responders can significantly impact their morale. Recognizing their dedication through gestures or supporting organizations ensures they know how much their work means.