Summer is nearly here, and the joys of water activities and cookouts with friends and family are just around the corner. Amidst all of this are the first responders who keep our communities safe. June is known as National Safety Month, a reminder to be aware of how your actions can impact others while off having fun. After a few years that have been difficult for nurses, firefighters, police officers, and EMT responders, it is more important than ever for us to work together to keep each other safe. Let's break down some of the most common summer incidents and how to avoid them.

Car accidents

Whether it is a much-anticipated road trip or packing the car up for a camping trip, there is no doubt you'll be hopping into a motor vehicle at some point this summer. It can be easy to forget how common and dangerous a car accident can be. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about 42,915 motor vehicle accidents resulted in fatalities in 2021, 11% of which occurred from June to September. Avoid these common causes of collision:

• Driving under the influence.
• Distracted driving.
• Irresponsible or reckless driving.

Accidental drowning

As the weather warms up, people flock to rivers, lakes, pools and water parks. This can be an enjoyable pastime and a great way to cool down while making lasting memories. However, the dangers of accidental drowning are very real and should be taken seriously. Stop Drowning Now reports that there is an average of 320,000 deaths as a result of drowning each year, and have increased since the beginning of the pandemic. In addition, they found that "drowning is the leading cause of unintentional injury-related death for children ages 1-4." Here are some of the most effective ways to prevent drowning:

• Learning to swim.
• Life jackets.
• Know CPR or basic life-saving skills.
• Be watchful.

Fires started by people

According to the USDA, 90% of all wildfires are caused by humans, many of which happen in the summer. This is due to:

• Unattended campfires.
• Discarded cigarettes.
• Fireworks.
• Equipment usage.

This is why it is so important to be mindful and aware of your surroundings. Be sure to completely distinguish campfires and never set off fireworks in a dangerous area. Fires can result in human harm, structure damage and wildland deterioration.

Boating accidents

Boating in the summer is one of the most beloved activities, but it does require an eye for safety. Whether you are setting sail on a lake or an ocean, it is important to know the dangers associated with boating. The Coast Guard reports that the following are some of the most common causes of boating accidents:

• Operator inexperience: Be sure that the operator is capable of operating a boat well. 
• Boating too fast: Speeding is very dangerous and can result in a boating accident. 
• Not having a lookout: The Coast Guard suggests that every boat has someone who is keeping a lookout for dangers on the horizon. 
• Operating while under the influence: Boating while impaired is just as harmful as driving while drunk. 
• Poor weather conditions: Boating in a storm or other dangerous weather can be treacherous. 

Now you know what to watch out for while you're enjoying the long days of summer. National Safety Month is a great time to become CPR certified or just be more mindful during your warm-weather activities. Your community and first responders will thank you!

May is a month of celebrating first responders. The week of the 15 through the 21 is National Police Week as well as National EMS week. Here, we will go into detail about how to honor the first responders who spend their lives protecting and defending American citizens. National Police and EMS Week is a great chance to show your appreciation and support for every first responder, but especially those who are in the police force and in the emergency medical services.

National Police Week

National Police Week, as detailed by the organizers,  "offers honor, remembrance, and peer support, while allowing law enforcement, survivors, and citizens to gather and pay homage to those who gave their lives in the line of duty." There are many events lined up in Washington DC that aim to offer support and a way for survivors to gather together with a common understanding. Here is the schedule as defined by the official website (note that some dates have passed):

• Annual Blue Mass: Tuesday, May 3
• Washington Area Law Enforcement Memorial Service: Monday, May 9
• National Police K-9 Memorial Service: Wednesday, May 11
• Police Unity Tour Arrival Ceremony: Thursday, May 12
• Annual Candlelight Vigil: Friday, May 13
• National Police Survivors Conference and C.O.P.S. Kids/Teens: Saturday, May 14
• Annual National Peace Officers' Memorial Service: Sunday, May 15

May 15 has been dedicated to memorializing police officers since 1962 when President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation to make it so. Now, the entire week is devoted to honoring the police force and many officers make the journey to Washington, DC to participate in the festivities. According to policeweek.org, there are between 25,000 to 40,000 attendees each year.

National EMS Week

May 15-21, 2022, is the 47th annual National EMS Week. It is a time for people to recognize EMS personnel and for those who have lost people to the profession to connect with each other. National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT) partners with the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) to lead annual EMS Week activities. They have created a theme for every day of the week to enhance awareness and promote safety.

• Sunday – Health, Wellness and Resilience Day
• Monday – EMS Education Day
• Tuesday – Safety Tuesday
• Wednesday – EMS for Children Day
• Thursday – Save-A-Life Day (CPR & Stop the Bleed)
• Friday – EMS Recognition Day

Schools and community groups can use these themes as ideas to celebrate EMS Week. This year, the overall theme is "Rising to the challenge." According to the President of the American
College of Emergency Physicians Gillian Schmitz, "The theme of 'Rising to the Challenge' is particularly meaningful as it reminds our nation that EMS professionals are faced with so many challenges today and they still rise above them. Through it all, EMS continues to respond, support and care for the needs of our communities."

Use this week to thank those who work or have worked on the medical front line. These are people who go to work every day and may find themselves in potentially life-threatening situations, all in the name of serving their communities.

The week of May 15 is to honor and celebrate first responders by participating in the activities surrounding the notable days.

May 4 is International Firefighters Day and a great opportunity to commemorate these first responders for all that they do for their communities. Let's take the time to dive a little deeper into what international firefighters' day is all about and how we can participate in our own ways.

How did International Firefighters Day begin?

International Firefighters Day began in the most humble of ways. Created by the Australian volunteer firefighter JJ Edmondson, the day of remembrance was established after a singular event that prompted her to take action.

On December 2, 1998, a wildfire was raging in Linton, Australia, a town about 93 miles west of Melbourne. The local crew was overwhelmed with the size of the fire and called for backup. One of the teams that came to assist was Geelong West Fire Brigade. Among them were Garry Vredeveldt, Chris Evans, Stuart Davidson, Jason Thomas, and Matthew Armstrong, who lost their lives fighting when their tanker caught fire.

The loss of these five brave men inspired Edmondson "to organize an internationally recognized symbol of support and respect for ALL firefighters and a date for which this could be coordinated worldwide" in 1999.

May 4 was chosen for a specific reason. It is the feast day of St Florian, who is the patron saint of all firefighters. He was the first firefighter of the Roman Empire, renowned for his bravery in his position.

How to recognize International Firefighters Day

The entire purpose of International Firefighters Day is to recognize all the brave individuals who serve their communities. As JJ Edmondson so eloquently puts it,

"The role of a firefighter in today's society – be it urban, rural, natural environment, volunteer, career, industrial, defense force, aviation, motorsport, or other is one of dedication, commitment and sacrifice – no matter what country we reside and work in. In the fire service, we fight together against one common enemy – fire – no matter what country we come from, what uniform we wear or what language we speak."

There are many different ways to celebrate the day, even if it's as simple as thanking a local firefighter.

The sound off

The official website for International Firefighters Day encourages first responders to sound off their sirens for 30 seconds in memory of firefighters who have been lost in the line of duty. The sirens are followed by one minute of silence in respect.

Wear blue and red

It is popular to wear blue and red on May 4 to showcase solidarity with all emergency responders, but especially firefighters. Displaying blue and red ribbons shows gratitude for those who have passed and responders who are still fighting vigilantly to this day. Ensure that the blue ribbon is covering the red one; symbolizing water over fire.

Show appreciation

The general public can celebrate the day by thanking their local fire department for all they do. You can do this by verbally expressing your gratitude or by donating to help support them in their efforts to protect the community. Another great way to show your respect is to be mindful of your actions outdoors by trying your best throughout the year to not contribute to the already high fire hazard that the world faces.

This May 4, take a moment to stop at noon local time for a minute of silence. Firefighters are continuously and bravely protecting us from the danger of fire.

Friday, April 22 is Earth Day. This year, the U.S. Army is taking part in a more integrated way than ever with its new initiative to "sustain the mission, secure the future to meet and defeat climate challenges," according to the U.S. Army Environmental Command.

Let's take a moment to dive into the project a little more in-depth.

The Pentagon and climate change

When it comes to the Pentagon and the climate crisis, the department has a history of keeping an eye on environmental concerns. However, based on new information and at the recommendation of scientific data, worries about climate change have only increased. According to the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the world is expected to warm by 3.2C (or 37.76F) this century.

Global warming is only one of the major climate concerns. The U.S. government is also worried about rising sea levels, carbon emissions and habitat destruction. The Pentagon itself has taken steps to create a new strategy regarding the climate issue by introducing the U.S. Army's first climate change strategy.

For example, climate-related issues can lead to conflict, which is where the Pentagon's interests are peaked. From dwindling resources to water wars, the environmental changes have a severe impact on the United State's defense policies.

As a massive contributor to the federal government's carbon footprint, The Army is taking accountability and leading by example to lower its environmental impact — currently, the department produces about 56% of the federal government's carbon footprint and 52% of its electricity use, according to the Washington Post.

A new strategy

In its first strategic plan released in February of 2022, the Army outlined its response to global-warming-driven conflicts. In its climate strategy, it hopes to cut back on its own negative impact on the earth. Here are a few of its goals:

• Cut back on the military's emissions by half in eight years (2030).
• Convert all noncombat vehicles to electric by 2035.
• Develop electric combat vehicles by 2050.
• A new kind of officer training for the changing climate, dealing with warmer and more extreme environments.

These may seem like ambitious goals, but the hope is that the Army can be more efficient and move into the future with the tools to mitigate the damage and prevent further issues. But it is not only about the future, it is imperative to take action now.

According to Christine E. Wormuth, who is the Secretary of the Army, "For today's Soldiers operating in extreme temperature environments, fighting wildfires, and supporting hurricane recovery, climate change isn't a distant future, it is a reality."

While these goals may seem out of the Army's regular line of work, Paul Farnan, the acting assistant secretary of the Army for installations, energy and environment made it clear that the new strategy is actually aiding its main mission of fighting and winning wars. Now, these two issues have become intrinsically linked.

Earth Day is another opportunity for the U.S. Army to prove its commitment to sustain the mission, and secure the future to meet and defeat climate challenges. To learn more about the Defense Department's activities on Earth Day, take a look at the partnership for the planet.

In the military community, family members are connected and rely on each other. The same is true for the children of military members, who play a large role in this community. April is Military Child Month and we're taking the time to spotlight the experiences of military children.

The military child in 2022

The Department of Defense reports there are currently 1.6 million military children of active-duty members. These are kids who move around the nation with their service member parents, often going to different schools and making new friends at each base. In fact, the average military families move about three times more than civilians according to the School Superintendents Association.

Because of their parent's choice to serve their country, military children have unique experiences that help shape who they will grow up to be. Despite the fact that they often change schools and change support systems, the United States military does its best to provide consistency and support to the military children and their parents.

Community support

There are resources provided by the Department of Defense to increase community support and connectivity. The life of a military child can result in many different experiences that the children of civilians can't relate to. Here are some of the different ways that military children are assisted.

Military Kids Connect

Military Kids Connect is a program that aims to support children by offering unique resources for their particular situation. From relationships, feelings, health and overall wellness, there is plenty of information for parents and kids alike. Their website says that their "goal is to enhance military kids' quality of life and help them prepare and cope with significant transitions such as relocations, parental deployment, and family adjustment after injuries."

Boys and Girls Club of America

There are hundreds of Boys and Girls Club of America locations across the country, and all children of active duty, National Guard and reserve parents have a free membership to their local club. This partnership is 30 years old and works to provide "access to specialized opportunities, cultivate lifelong friendships, and develop the necessary resilience to build great futures." Click here to find a club near you.

4-H military partnership

Another great collaboration, the 4-H military partnership helps military children find friends, passions, hobbies and a community across the country. They focus on positive youth development programs and unique learning opportunities that encourage them to be confident leaders. 4-H offers predictable connections to kids who often lead somewhat unpredictable lives, as well as a good environment for military-connected children. 4-H has military liaisons who are the official point of contact between military branches and the organization, which helps the two communities come together to support the youth.

Aid for parents

Whether both parents or just one family member serves the country, it can be hard to know how to help your children cope. The DOD offers several different programs to help parents give their military children the best. Here is a list of just a few of the options that parents have through the government:

Thrive online programs: You can find courses on ways to parent positively through child stress management and health promotion.
Childcare: Military OneSource has a database of accredited childcare centers. 
Exceptional Family Member Program: "Use this tool to navigate through the Department of Defense's network of services and support for families with special needs."

February is Black History Month and, while it is important to take note of history all year round, we're using this opportunity to share and honor Black veteran stories. This month, we're highlighting the inspiring story of Black American war veteran Roy M. Johnson, Sr. who fought bravely as a medic in the Korean War, Black Americans faced inequalities on the front lines and at home when they returned from war, despite their contributions to the country.

A story of bravery

Roy Johnson was born in 1922 in Lincolnton, GA. Just over 20 years later, he was drafted into the war in Europe where he served until it ended. His story is one of bravery, perseverance and service to the United States of America. 

By 1950, Sergeant Roy Johnson was a medic in the US Army. Like most active military members of the time, there came an opportunity for him to volunteer for a dangerous mission, where he would risk his life further to protect his country and his deep-held beliefs. Sergeant Roy accepted the mission and was sent to the frontlines of the Taejon area in Korea. There, his task was to get the wounded soldiers from the frontline and bring them back to the first aid station.

The backroads of the countryside were notoriously confusing and difficult to navigate, and Sergeant Johnson's journey to the Taejon area was no exception. At a crossroads, his path intersected that of several enemy tanks that had somehow broken through American lines. He came under unexpected enemy fire, especially because his vehicle was marked with the Red Cross symbol. His traveling companion was killed in the onslaught and Sergeant Johnson's hand became badly wounded (later it would be completely amputated).

Sergeant Johnson fell off the vehicle and while laying on the ground, was subsequently shot three times in the back. An hour after this conflict, when the enemy was gone, he climbed onto another medical vehicle and drove himself to find his comrades. Badly wounded, he lost consciousness immediately.

Not yet completely safe, the field hospital where he was taken to be cared for fell under enemy machine gunfire. Escaping the enemy once again before the hospital was taken by the North Koreans, Sergeant Johnson was sent first to Japan and then to Walter Reed Medical Center. Not only is this the hospital where his hand was amputated — it's where he met Sergeant Alfonzo Spencer (the father of current AFBA President, General Larry Spencer). The two would become deep friends for the rest of their lives.

Before being discharged from the army in 1958, Sergeant spent another eight years at Bethesda Naval Hospital  where he was an Occupational Therapy Technician who trained other war amputees on how to use their new prosthetics effectively. Along with his honorable memory of service, Sergeant Johnson lives in Maryland today with his children. 

To learn more about this inspiring Korean War Veteran, check out our YouTube channel.

Aside from all the active branches of the United States Armed Forces, there are reserve components of the armed forces. February 19th is the coast guard reserve's anniversary, so we're tipping our hats to all Armed Forces reserves, collectively called the National Guard and Reserve. Title 10 of the United States Code, a document that outlines the role of armed forces in the United States, reveals the purpose of reserve components.

The purpose of the reserves

According to the document, "the purpose of each reserve component is to provide trained units and qualified persons available for active duty in the armed forces, in time of war or national emergency, and at such other times as the national security may require, to fill the needs of the armed forces whenever, during and after the period needed to procure and train additional units and qualified persons to achieve the planned mobilization, more units and persons are needed than are in the regular components."

Basically, the reserves are a resource for active duty armed forces to use whenever there is a national emergency that requires additional support. They usually perform a minimum of 39 days of military duty per year in order to be prepared for when they're needed. Here's a list of the regular reserves in the U.S.:

• Army Reserve.
• Navy Reserve.
• Marine Corps Reserve.
• Air Force Reserve.
• Coast Guard Reserve.

Joining the reserves

Joining the military reserves could be a better option for some than participating in the active-duty military. Not only are you still able to work to protect your country, but you are also able to do so in a more manageable way, which may suit some people better. This is because members can keep their civilian jobs and continue their education. The standards to join the reserves are still rigorous and draw reliable, qualified individuals. While there are some minor differences in each branch's reserves, the basic requirements are the same and the same state benefits are offered.

Eligibility status

According to MilitaryOneSource, here are the basic standards that must be met to qualify for the reserves:

• Be a U.S. citizen or resident alien.
• Generally, be between the ages of 17 and 42.
• Make it through the armed forces physical exam.
• Pass the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery test.
• Meet the minimum Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) eligibility standard.

Before meeting these requirements, anyone interested in joining the reserves must contact a recruiter, who would be happy to help them get started. A good place to begin your journey is the recruiting website of your desired branch:

• Army National Guard.
• Army Reserve.
• Navy Reserve.
• Marine Corps Reserve.
• Air National Guard.
• Air Force Reserve.
• Coast Guard Reserve.

Despite the fact that being in the reserves is less of a time commitment than active duty, there are still important obligations that you'll need to fulfill. These include things like initial training, a monthly drill, annual training, possible activation and commitment time.

These obligations come with many different benefits for those who choose to devote a portion of their time to their country. For example, reserve members get part-time pay that depends on their level of commitment and service, as well as health care coverage from TRICARE Reserve Select.

The United States Armed Forces Reserves are an important part of the military, and the country has called on them in many different times of need.

January 15 is National Hat Day, and no one knows the importance of a good hat more than members of the military and first responders. Unlike a run-of-the-mill baseball hat, military hats and those worn by first responders command a certain reverence and value. Just like the rest of a uniform, headgear can let the world know important facts like rank, status or military branch. Let's celebrate National Hat Day by taking a closer look at the history and meaning behind the many unique hats worn by these groups.

Military hats

Many civilians may not know that military members refer to their hats as "covers." In the Army, members wear different berets that have a specific meaning. This tradition dates back to World War ll for the United States, though militaries across the world have been using berets to signify status for centuries. In the U.S. the color of the hat is very meaningful for those in any branch of the military. Here are some examples of different hats and their significance:

• Black berets: This headgear is used in the fancy dress uniform of army members.
• Brown berets: In 2018, the army created a unique hat for members of the Security Force Assistance Command.
• Green berets: Perhaps one of the most well-known styles of berets, green is worn by army members who are special forces soldiers.

In addition to the berets, the army has many other hats, each with its own meaning. Generals have their own caps, depending on rank. These designs have changed over time to reflect the dress of the era. The army is a simple example, but every branch of the military has its own important hats for every rank or service provided.

There are different military uniforms for different occasions. The recognizable Navy cap has different insignias on the visor to signify rank. Captains and commanders have "dark blue cloth, embroidered with two rows of gold oak leaves and acorns." On the other hand, Lieutenant Commanders and lower ranks have a plain visor. There are even different pins that are positioned on the cap depending on rank and occasion.

Military traditions

The U.S. military has its own uniform designers who strive to make uniforms that are practical, modern and effective. Regardless of rank or year, each branch has its own age-old traditions and requirements of its members. For example, when dressed in a formal uniform hat, a member must wear it outside, remove and carry it inside and keep it off in any military aircraft. In addition, service members are not allowed to salute while their hats are off. If a member is attending a funeral in their dress uniform, they must keep their cover the entire time as a sign of respect, whereas a civilian would likely take their hat off.

First responder hats

For firefighters, hats are more than just an accessory. Their helmets are created to protect them from potentially dangerous situations like falling beams, rafters and other debris. In addition, these helmets are usually also equipped with a visor, eye protection, and a light for maximum functionality.

The police force also has a long history of different hats and helmets, but the modern first responder wears different headgear depending on the occasion and rank. Most of the time, police officers wear baseball hats or other casual headgear (depending on location and force) instead of the typical custodian helmet that is worn by officers in the UK.

With its many different customs and traditions, military and first responder headgear are more than just a stylish accessory to the rest of the uniform.

The U.S. military offers a plethora of career options as well as training opportunities, often at a reduced cost and sometimes it is even paid for in full. While many think of the military as consisting solely of combat personnel, there are a lot of other long-term job opportunities in every branch. As 2021 comes to a close, let's take a look at the future trends of the military and career trajectories.

Most popular careers in the military

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), enlisted personnel and officers have a wide range of career options. Here are some of the most common career fields found throughout the U.S. military branches:

• Engineering.
• Medicine.
• Administration.
• Human resources.
• Protective services.
• Mechanics.

Regardless of service level, members of the military have many different opportunities, but there are a few that stand out and are increasing in popularity and demand.

Engineering, science and technology are on the rise

According to a BLS report published in March 2021, engineering, science and technological careers make up the majority of total enlisted personnel with a total of 170,642 people.

• Army: 42,202.
• Air Force: 53,672.
• Marine Corps: 27,810.
• Navy: 46,958.

This field is booming, in part due to the need for more advanced technology in the military. The Department of Defense's most recent proposed budget for U.S. research and technology development has surpassed any previous budget proposal. According to Military and Aerospace Electronics, "Pentagon experts want $111.96 billion in 2022 for research, development, test and evaluation (RDT&E), which would be a 4.2 percent increase from 2021."

An increased budget means that more people and experts will be needed to execute the elevated technological requirements. Here are some of the most popular jobs within this career path:

• Security analysts
• Civil engineers
• Environmental engineers
• Computer network architects

In addition to these STEM career path options, the existence of the United States Space Force has welcomed a plethora of new opportunities. According to their website, the Space Force is looking for those who are interested in science and technology, including:

• Space operations officer
• Developmental engineer
• Intelligence officer
• Space systems programming
• Cyber surety

To learn more about your options as an officer, an enlisted military professional or a civilian, be sure to check out the career section of their website. As of now, there are only about 6,434 personnel assigned to the Space Force, but there are plans to beef up the project. In fact, the Air Force's FY22 budget requested "$156.3 billion represents a 2.3% increase, and the Space Force's budget of $17.4 billion is a 13.1% increase," according to airforcemag.com.

Combat specialty

Combat is still an extremely important component of what each branch does, despite the variety of other options. According to BLS, an enlisted officer who specializes in combat plans and directs "military operations, oversees combat activities and serves as combat leaders. They may be in charge of tanks and other armored assault vehicles, artillery systems, special operations, or infantry units. This group also includes naval surface warfare and submarine warfare officers, combat pilots, and aircrews."

The BLS research study found that there were a total of 164,390 enlisted personnel in the combat occupational group, a vast majority of them being in the Army. To learn more, check out this helpful resource, regardless of your preferred branch. 

BLS research makes it clear that technology and science are the fastest-growing military career paths, followed by the plethora of combat specialty opportunities. In third place was the occupational group of vehicle and machinery mechanics, with a total participation number of 61,506 people across all branches. To learn more about each branch's employment opportunities, visit their respective websites.

First responders are well known to be the unsung heroes who support their communities by providing important and necessary services. However, first responders occupy many other roles that the general public may not be aware of but are nonetheless valuable. Here are some of the most interesting and unexpected responsibilities of America's first responders:

Disaster response

First responders are commonly thought of as those who respond at the scene of a local crisis, and while that is true, they also play an important role in broader disaster response efforts. In times of national emergency, first responders are there to take care of those who need it the most at the time, no matter where they are. Because they are trained to react with a level head and operate effectively in times of crisis, first responders are the perfect group of people to send to help manage national emergencies.

According to the legal services company US Legal, first responders are a massive part of the response plan. They can help manage "evacuation, rescue, crowd control, and medical attention." Not only do first responders get called on in times of national need, but they are also relied on to prepare their communities for the likelihood of a disaster.

Preparation in schools

Emergency preparation in schools is important in case of natural disasters or other high risk situation. Even something as simple as a fire drill can make a huge difference in a time of need. Sometimes, to add another layer of safety, administrators partner with first responders. When firefighters and police officers build a working relationship with teachers, aids and the members of the school, their response can be more effective in an emergency situation.

First responders can also share important information with administrators and students alike. According to Navigate360, they provide valuable knowledge and help to enhance already existing safety plans for school-wide emergencies. Working with first responders can add a layer of safety and preparedness that will protect the learning environment.

Psychological first aid

First responders are all trained to administer first aid and provide life-saving care, but there is a psychological element that many don't think about. However, first responders do have to consider the mental component of their care and are trained to manage those who may be having an adverse mental reaction to their current situation. For example, if a group of people has just experienced a terrible car accident, there is likely to be a psychological impact as well.

According to FamilyDoctor.org, there is a high chance that a car accident or a circumstance that requires the presence of a first responder will lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the victim. The EMT or firefighter will need to make sure the people involved are safe and out of harm's way while understanding the victim's fragile mental state.

Community support

First responders are present in every American community, in many ways that are unseen. Recently, North Carolina designated that child protective services workers and adult protective services workers are now emergency first responders. According to a local news source, the law became active in June 2020 and it was created to give the workers more protections and added training. The typical titles and operations that are held by first responders are rapidly changing, as our requirements as a nation shift. In the wake of the global pandemic, we need them more than ever.