Every year, National EMS Week gives communities across the country the chance to honor the lifesaving work of emergency medical services professionals. In 2025, EMS Week takes place from May 18–24, and this year’s theme, “We Care. For Everyone,” highlights the compassion, resilience, and dedication EMS providers bring to their communities every day.
At e-FirstAidSupplies, we’re proud to support EMS professionals through our products and our platform. In this blog post, we explore what EMS Week is all about, why it matters, and how your community—especially younger generations—can get involved.
What is EMS Week?
First established by President Gerald Ford in 1974, National EMS Week celebrates the important role that EMS professionals play in protecting public health and safety. From EMTs and paramedics to dispatchers and support staff, these individuals are the first line of care during emergencies.
Each day of EMS Week has a special focus, encouraging a well-rounded celebration:
- Sunday – Health, Wellness, and Resilience Day
- Monday – Education Day
- Tuesday – Safety Day
- Wednesday – EMS for Children Day
- Thursday – Save-A-Life Day (CPR/Stop the Bleed)
- Friday – EMS Recognition Day
- Saturday – EMS Remembrance Day
Notable EMS Week Events from the Past
Many communities have come together during EMS Week in powerful and creative ways:
- “First on the Scene” Training: In Michigan, EMS teams hosted free emergency response classes to teach the public how to assist before responders arrive.
- Touch-a-Truck Events: Families explore emergency vehicles, meet EMS professionals, and learn about the tools of the trade.
- Teddy Bear Clinics: Designed to help kids feel more comfortable around medical professionals by “treating” stuffed animals.
- CPR and Stop the Bleed Classes: Hosted by EMS agencies to equip citizens with lifesaving skills.
- EMS Winterfest Conferences: Free educational events offering certification credits and professional networking.
- Recognition Ceremonies: Many EMS organizations hold events to honor outstanding EMTs and paramedics.
These events don’t just honor EMS workers—they also build public awareness and foster community connection.
Fun Ways Schools Can Support First Responders During EMS Week
Engaging students during EMS Week is a great way to teach community appreciation and inspire future careers. Here are several fun and meaningful ways schools can get involved:
1. EMS Career Days
Bring EMTs and paramedics into the classroom to talk about their jobs, demonstrate equipment, and answer questions. Great for middle and high schoolers exploring career paths.
2. Interactive First Aid Lessons
Age-specific workshops can teach:
- Elementary students how to call 911 and recognize an emergency.
- Middle schoolers how to stop bleeding and apply basic bandages.
- High schoolers the basics of CPR and AED use.
3. Ambulance Tours or Station Field Trips
Let students see an ambulance up close or visit a local EMS station. These experiences help kids understand what EMS professionals do and see them as approachable heroes.
4. Letter-Writing Campaigns to First Responders
Organize a school-wide effort where students write thank-you letters to local EMTs, paramedics, and firefighters These heartfelt notes can be dropped off at firehouses or ambulance corps,—or mailed directly by students. It’s a simple yet powerful gesture of appreciation.
5. Art and Essay Contests
Have students express what first responders to for the community through creative writing or artwork. Winners can be featured online or in school assemblies.
6. Collaborate with School Nurses
Set up safety stations during recess or lunch where EMS volunteers demonstrate skills or let kids explore first aid kits.
7. Share on Social Media
Encourage schools to post photos and stories from EMS Week activities to inspire others and build visibility for the EMS community.
Why EMS Week Matters
EMS Week is more than just a celebration—it’s a reminder of how vital emergency responders are to our health systems. The week also serves as an opportunity to:
- Raise awareness about career opportunities in EMS.
- Support recruitment in a field facing workforce shortages.
- Educate the public on what to do in an emergency.
- Recognize the emotional and physical demands placed on EMS workers.
Whether you’re a student, parent, teacher, or community member, your involvement can make a difference.
Not all Heros Wear Capes!
Support the People Who Support Us
At e-FirstAidSupplies, we offer a wide selection of first responder kits, trauma supplies, and EMS-ready gear—many designed with feedback from professionals in the field. This EMS Week, consider:
Recognizing your local EMS team with a thank-you message or care package.
Donating a first aid kit to a local school.
Sponsoring a CPR training session.
EMS Week Gift Ideas
Looking for a way to show appreciation? Here are some thoughtful gift ideas for EMS professionals:
- Personalized first aid kits or gear bags
- Insulated water bottles or coffee tumblers for long shifts
- Compression socks or wellness accessories
- Gift cards to local restaurants or coffee shops
- Handwritten thank-you notes from students or community members
- Snack baskets, energy bars, or hydration packs for the truck
Even small gestures can make a big impact. Supporting EMS workers with practical and heartfelt gifts is a powerful way to say: we see you, and we thank you.
Let’s work together to celebrate EMS Week in a way that honors those who serve and prepares the next generation to value and possibly join this lifesaving field.
Happy EMS Week 2025!
