Archive · 28 Oct 2025
National First Responders Day: Honoring Those Who Serve
Imagine people who are the very first ones to help when something bad happens, like a fire or an accident.
They are called first responders.
There are about 4.6 million of them in the U.S., like police officers, firefighters, and paramedics.
They work very hard and face many dangers to keep us safe.
Sometimes, they even get hurt or tragically lose their lives while on duty.
To thank them, a special day called National First Responders Day is celebrated every year on October 28th.
It's a day for everyone to remember their bravery and sacrifices.
You can show your appreciation by thanking them, donating to their causes, or sharing why their job is important.
This day was first celebrated in 2019 to make sure we don't forget how much they do for us.
National First Responders Day is observed annually on October 28 in the United States.
The day honors police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and other individuals who serve as first responders.
The US Senate passed a resolution in 2019 to establish National First Responders Day.
Approximately 4.6 million first responders work in communities across the nation.
The day encourages citizens to express gratitude for the sacrifices made by first responders and to raise awareness about their challenges and well-being.
- Who
- First responders, including police, firefighters, and paramedics
- What
- National First Responders Day is observed to honor and acknowledge the sacrifices of first responders.
- When
- October 28 annually
- Where
- Across the United States
- Why
- To recognize the bravery and sacrifices of men and women who protect others and to raise awareness about their challenges.
- Date Observed
- October 28
- First Observed
- 2019
- Number of First Responders
- Approximately 4.6 million
- Examples of First Responders
- Police, firefighters, paramedics
- Firefighter Fatalities (2023)
- 89