ASHI and MEDIC First Aid Blog

National EMS Week is right around the corner. From May 15-21, 2022, communities across the United States will come together to celebrate emergency medical services personnel for their service and sacrifice.

President Gerald Ford first authorized National EMS Week in 1974. Since then, local communities and EMS services agencies have spent this dedicated week recognizing the important contributions of EMS practitioners.

Here are some ways to say thank you to the EMS professionals in your own community.

How to show your appreciation for EMS workers

EMS providers often see the worst of the worst on the front line, which can take a physical, mental and emotional toll over time. Yet, these first responders continue to show up and do the job day after day, year after year.

So, we encourage you to make an effort to publicly acknowledge the important work they do and help lift their spirits throughout this special week.

1. A simple thank you. A sincere thank you can go a long way in feeling seen and supported.

2. Deliver food or other treats. Contact your local EMS agency to see what items would be most appreciated and ask about a convenient drop-off time.

3. Get your kids involved. Have your children write thank you notes or color pictures that can be mailed or dropped off.

4. Put signs in front of your home. Create posters or signs showing your support. You can stake them in the ground or place them in a front window.

5. Participate in community EMS Week events. Your local EMS agency might have set up a blood drive, a memorial service for fallen EMS or a fun event for the whole family to enjoy.

6. Use social media to recognize EMS personnel in your network. Know someone in the EMS community? Celebrate their hard work and dedication by crafting a special thank you and share it to your social media channels.

Additionally, EMS Week has specific daily themes to help guide internal trainings and celebrations.

This year’s EMS Week themes include: Health, Wellness and Resilience Day (Sunday), Education Day (Monday), EMS Safety Day (Tuesday), EMS for Children Day (Wednesday), Save-A-Life Day (Thursday) and EMS Recognition Day (Friday).

One of these themes could present an opportunity for your business, school or community group to get involved in other ways. So, get creative and reach out to your local EMS agency to show your support.

Know of another great way to celebrate EMS appreciation week? Leave a comment below.

Find additional resources for first responders, including affordable online continuing education courses, here.