The Holiday Sacrifice of Fire Fighters and Paramedics: 5 Reasons to Be Grateful

Author: IAFF Staff

December 17, 2018

If you’re an IAFF member, fire fighter or paramedic, working during the holidays is just a part of the job. Instead of curling up at home with loved ones on Christmas and New Year’s, you are on duty, responding to calls day and night, away from your family.

During this holiday season, here are five reasons we are thankful for your service and sacrifice.

1. While we enjoy time off with family and friends, you sacrifice your own holiday with loved ones to work around the clock and keep every shift covered.
2. While we are warm and comfortable inside, you work in snow, wind and freezing temperatures to keep your communities safe.
3. While we host holiday gatherings filled with food, lights and laughter, you respond to countless emergencies, from Christmas tree fire to cardiac arrests.
4. While we drive to a family dinner, party or church service, you respond to car accidents, provide life-saving rescue operations and keep us safe.
5. While we breathe in clean air, many of you continue to battle blazing wildfires in southern California, risking your own health and safety.

Thank you for protecting others.

Some people may assume that everyone gets to spend the holidays with family and friends and may take it for granted that you and your brothers and sisters work — on Christmas, New Year’s Eve and every day of the year. But they have peace of mind knowing that you’re there to answer the call. Thank you for all you do every day to make the season safer for all.

As an IAFF member, your hard work means the world to so many, including the IAFF Center of Excellence. We are grateful to you, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. From the entire treatment team and staff at the IAFF Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health Treatment and Recovery, thank you for keeping your community safe during the holidays and beyond.