Christmas time is fast approaching and this is a time of family celebrations, gatherings, office get-togethers and vacations.
While most will be celebrating this time with family, friends and loved ones, I want to take this moment to recognize all first responders and non-first responders who will be working throughout the holidays and won’t be able to celebrate during that time with family, friends and loved ones.
They will be on duty, fulfilling their responsibility to keep the communities and you safe.
During this time, as you celebrate with your family and loved ones, know that police officers, firefighters, military personnel, EMS, nurses, doctors, social workers, dispatch operators, shift workers and all those other professions that are required to work during this festive season are there to keep you safe and secure.
Emergencies don’t halt on Christmas Day or even on New Year’s. In fact, this is the busiest and most dangerous time for first responders and other professions.
The holidays can also be a grueling time for those suffering from addictions, depression, stress and the unhoused population. It’s supposed to be peaceful, joyous and happy time of year for everyone, however, this is not the case and these situations can become exacerbated.
First responders and non-first responders face high instances of posttraumatic stress disorder and other work-related mental fatigue, so this can be a difficult time of year for them and others.
This is the time of year that we all celebrate and say Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, Season Greetings or whatever greeting you choose to use.
Say thank you to your first responders, non-first responders, health care workers and everyone else that works behind the scenes. As we celebrate this year, let’s take a moment to remember those working over the holidays. Their unwavering sacrifice and service to our communities allows all of us to enjoy the holidays in peace.
Take care of yourself and others.
