Celebrate National First Responders Day on October 28

Celebrate National First Responders Day on October 28

The American Public Works Association celebrates National First Responders Day on October 28, which increases public awareness of the vital work performed by public works professionals, police officers, firefighters, and paramedics as first responders. We are proud to serve our city as first responders and support the community during emergencies.

Public works professionals play an essential role in emergency response and recovery alongside law enforcement, fire, and EMS partners. The Public Works Department provides vital support to emergency response partners, helping protect and restore essential services following an emergency situation. Once the emergency has passed, it is often public works who are responsible for restoring critical services and getting a community back to normal.

Public Works assists with emergency events, including:

Responding to Storm Events

• Removing debris
• Addressing flooding
• Repairing damaged roads
• Help restore safe access after heavy rainstorms

Protecting Community from Flooding

• Maintain storm drains, culvers, creeks, and drainage systems
• Distribute sandbags
• Taking preventative measures to reduce flood risks

Making Roads and Public Spaces Safe

• Crews installing barricades
• Closing hazardous roads
• Repairing damaged infrastructure

Maintaining Essential Services

• Responding to water main breaks
• Sewer system failures
• Other infrastructure emergencies to protect public health and restore crucial services.

Supporting Emergency Response Teams

• Public Works coordinates with Police, Fire, emergency management, and other City departments providing equipment, vehicles, personnel, road access, and infrastructure to ensure our City medical teams can reach people and operate safely.
  

History and Milestones of National First Responders Day:

• In 2003, President George W. Bush issued Presidential Policy Directive 8 (PPD-8) officially recognizing public works as first responders.
• In 2010, Mississippi, under House Bill (HB) 664, recognized public works professionals as first responders.
• In 2017, the APWA Board of Directors approved the adoption of a national "Public Works First Responder" symbol for use throughout North America to identify public works personnel and acknowledge their federally mandated role as first responders.
• In 2019, the US Senate passed Senate Concurrent Resolution 15 (S.Con.Res.15), "Expressing support for the designation of October 28, 2019, as Honoring the Nation's First Responders Day." Public works is specifically included.
• In 2022 New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu signed into law SB325, formally recognizing public works employees as first responders.
• Public works is often considered "the silent arm of public safety," usually without fanfare. Public works professionals are often the first on scene and the last to leave the scenes of disasters-no matter the peril.

For more information on the Public Works Department, please view: Public Works | City of Santa Barbara

City of Santa Barbara's Fire Department:
On National First Responders Day, the Santa Barbara City Fire Department recognizes the dedication and commitment of the firefighters, paramedics, law enforcement officers, dispatchers, and emergency medical personnel who serve our community every day. Whether responding to fires, medical emergencies, rescues, or natural disasters, first responders work tirelessly to protect lives and keep our community safe. Today, we extend our sincere appreciation to all first responders and their families for their service, sacrifices, and unwavering commitment to the Santa Barbara community.