First responders give more than their time to service us. Sometimes, they give their own lives.
This came to mind a couple of weeks ago when a 24-year-old Durham firefighter lost his life while he was in a building trying to make sure everyone else was safe.
First responders – men and women who serve us through emergency medical services, firefighters and law enforcement officers and respond when called – are critically important to our health and well-being, as well as to the insurance industry. While their response times and quality of service are a factor in insurance rates, their effect on preserving our lives and property is of even greater importance.
The Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks brought new respect for first responders. Americans saw firefighters and rescuers rush into the World Trade Center as building occupants fled. The first responders were there to save lives.
First responders continue that selfless zest to save lives. I like to find ways to honor and support them. Here are a few tips that I thought I’d share with you:
- Say “thanks” to a first responder. You can do this in person or on a social media post.
- Send a handwritten note expressing your gratitude to a local department or agency. Parents and teachers can help kids create handmade thank-you cards to deliver to first responders.
- Have breakfast or lunch delivered to a local department or agency. You can enlist neighbors or co-workers to help finance this gesture.
- Consider donating to a local fire, EMS or police department, or to any organization that support first responders and their families. Many fire departments, especially rural or small-town departments, rely on volunteers and often operate on shoestring budgets. Even a small donation can help departments buy necessary equipment. It can also boost morale for the firefighters.
- If you own a business, consider offering a courtesy discount to first responders.
Many of these suggestions cost little or nothing and require minimal effort. There are also some more involved ways you can support first responders. One way is to volunteer your services. Even if you don’t feel up to becoming a volunteer firefighter, offering to pitch in with a fund-raising event or supporting auxiliary organizations that assist first responders can help.
First responders play a vital role in protecting communities across North Carolina. They work hard to get the training necessary to help keep us safe.
I hope you will join me in finding meaningful ways to let these dedicated men and women know that you appreciate their sacrifice.
