91 saved#2,396 of 6,224

National First Responders Day

Show your appreciation to first responders everywhere on National First Responders Day - thank them for their courageous service and dedication!

Wednesday

October 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

Have an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEOctober 28

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCareers

SUBCATEGORYFirst Responders

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

On October 28, you'll have the chance to show your appreciation for first responders with National First Responders Day! This day was created in 2017 to recognize the incredible courage and selflessness of these individuals who put their lives on the line every single day. From firefighters and police officers, to dispatchers and emergency medical technicians - this holiday is all about honoring those brave men and women who help keep us safe.

TIMELINE

National First Responders Day Timeline

Emergence of Formal Firefighting

In the 1800s, firefighting departments started becoming more organized with formal units established in cities across the United States.

Creation of Police Force

The New York Police Department, as an example, was formally established in 1865, providing a template for other cities.

Adoption of 911 System

The United States adopts 911 as the national emergency number, enabling rapid response by first responders during crises.

Emergency Medical Services Act

The Emergency Medical Services Act was passed in 1973 to improve and expand the delivery of emergency healthcare services.

9/11 Attack Highlights Role

The heroic role of first responders was highlighted during the tragic events of September 11, 2001 – laying a foundation for greater appreciation.

Establishment of National First Responders Day

The United States Congress designates October 28 as National First Responders Day to pay tribute to these selfless individuals.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National First Responders Day

Send a thank you card

Write a heartfelt note of thanks to your local first responders. Whether it is the fire department, police, or EMS, they all deserve a little appreciation.

MAKE

Make a donation

Donate money or supplies to your community first responders. Local foundations and charities often accept donations on behalf of first responders.

ORGANIZE

Organize a fundraiser

Put together a fundraiser or charity event in support of first responders in your community. You could host a car wash, bake sale, 5K run/walk, or any other type of event to raise money.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer

Look for ways to volunteer with your local first responders. This could involve helping out with administrative tasks or providing assistance during an emergency situation.

SPREAD

Spread awareness

Help spread awareness about the important work that first responders do by sharing stories and information on social media or with your friends and family.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National First Responders Day is Important

It supports local heroes

Celebrating National First Responders Day is not only a great way to show our appreciation for first responders (including police officers, EMTs, fire crews and more), but it is also a great way to give back to the community by supporting local heroes through volunteer programs or donations.

It recognizes and honors first responders

National First Responders Day honors the brave men and women who make it their mission to serve and protect us in our times of need. It's a time to recognize and express gratitude for all that they do for our communities, from responding to emergency situations to providing medical assistance and more!

It helps build awareness of first responder issues

National First Responders Day is also an opportunity to build awareness around important issues such as resource shortages, budget cuts, long shifts, dangerous working conditions and other challenges that first responders face. By educating ourselves on these topics, we can better support our heroic first responders.