May 1 is First Responders Day in Ontario.

First responders are volunteers and professionals who have dedicated their lives to public service. Their life-saving skills often make the difference between life and death. Firefighters, police officers, and paramedics put their own safety on the line every day in service to all Canadians.

Here are some facts you might not know courtesy of the Ottawa First Responders Foundation:

  • First responders are much less likely to reach retirement than the average Canadian. This high attrition rate, especially in paramedics, is linked to the mental health demands placed on responders and their families
  • PTSD doesn’t harm just first responders who develop it — it can have unintended consequences for their families and co-workers
  • About 45 percent of Canadian first responders have symptoms consistent with at least one mental health disorder.

Can you help first responders? Yes, here is how:

  • Say hi and smile when you see a first responder
  • Heart Window Campaign – print off or make your own version of our heart logo to stick in the window of your home to show your support for Ottawa First Responders (you can print their website heart from here)
  • Ask any first responders you know how they are doing and be an open ear if they need to talk
  • If you notice shifts in their behaviour, encourage them to reach out Resource List
  • When not in isolation, take the time to attend or host events in support of first responders and their mental health
  • Donate to the Ottawa First Responders Foundation