ASHI and MEDIC First Aid Blog

Today is International Firefighters Day, an opportunity to show our appreciation for the lifesaving work of these dedicated men and women.

According to www.firefightersday.org:

International Firefighters’ Day is observed each year on [May 4]. On this date you are invited to remember the past firefighters who have died while serving our community or dedicated their lives to protecting the safety of us all. At the same time, we can show our support and appreciation to the firefighters worldwide who continue to protect us so well throughout the year.

By proudly wearing and displaying blue and red ribbons pinned together or by participating in a memorial or recognition event, we can show our gratitude to firefighters everywhere.

Another heartfelt recognition is the global Sound Off:

A special time to stop and reflect on the sacrifices made by firefighters is held on the first Sunday in May at noon local time each year when fire sirens sound for 30 seconds followed by a minute’s silence in memory of, and respect for, all firefighters who have been lost in the line of duty or passed on before us.

For a look at just how much the fire service does for our communities, check out our fire emergencies infographic here.

Among the life-threatening dangers that face firefighters in the line of duty is one that may not be widely known to those outside, or perhaps even inside, the fire service. Research has shown that firefighters are experiencing multiple types of cancer at a greater rate than the general population in the United States through the occupational exposure to certain materials.

We are proud to introduce the newest 24-7 EMS course, Emergency Responders, Firefighters and Cancer, which raises awareness and examines the increased risks of cancer for firefighters and the general steps that need to be taken for protection and prevention.  We invite you to watch the preview of this CE course, Smoke Alarms, to learn more, and to share the link with anyone you feel would benefit from a better understanding of the very real threat that cancer poses for firefighters.  

24-7 EMS collaborated with the Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN) to bring you this program, and a portion of the proceeds from purchases of this program will be donated to the FCSN.

To the brave men and women who put their lives on the line to protect our homes, our communities and our lives when fire strikes, all of us at HSI, 24-7 EMS and Fire thank you for your service.