Overview:
Whether they are running into a burning building, on a search and rescue mission in the vast wilderness or simply protecting our local streets from harm’s way, our first responders are the backbone to an operational society. The question “What is a first responder?” is hard to comprehend until one is fully dependent on them in an unusual situation. The Homeland Security Act of 2002 defines first responders as “individuals who protect life, evidence, property or the environment during the early stages of an emergency (www.dhs.gov).”
Imagine it being your primary occupational obligation to run into a place that everyone else is attempting to run away from ... that is a first responder. When a building catches fire we depend on firemen to put it out. When a loved one has an unexpected health condition an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) will be on scene in minutes.
For many of us these may be worst-case-scenario thoughts, but this is an everyday occurrence. For it is in times of chaos that we depend on them most. We salute you first responders!
Back Where It All Began:
During the foundational years of the United States, first responders were at the front lines of defense in the country, the local law enforcement. Examples of what a first responder was can be seen throughout history.
Paul Revere’s midnight ride to warn the city of Boston, notifying the town that “the British were coming.” Proper first-aid on the battlefields was hard to find prior to the Civil War, but The Battle of Gettysburg changed all that; creating the need for a specialist that can bandage a wounded soldier in a hurry.
During the founding days of Bellingham, WA, home of Trayvax’s manufacturing facility, the area was protected by Captain Pickett, a Civil War general. Pickett built the Fort of Bellingham on a bluff three miles from the bay. First responders were stationed there to keep watch for enemy attacks on Bellingham. What is the history of first responders where you live?
First responders have always been at the forefront of a change for better times. This could not be more true than on 9/11/2001, as the United States mourned a devastating chain of events. For months following, instead of running for cover, from across the country first responders flocked to Ground Zero in New York City to provide aid in a time of tragedy. The bravery and courage that is embodied in these members of society is unparalleled to any other profession.
Modern Day First Responder:
Today first responders are much more than the first line of defense or the first on the scene of an accident. They are our watchful protectors, the voice of hope amidst dark times and the courageous guardians of the night. Many of us know someone personally that works in a first response field, police officers, firemen or any emergency service personnel. We encourage you to ask them “what is a first responder?”
It is these same individuals that we will depend on at some point in our lives. Getting to know them personally will help us understand the toll it takes & the pride they carry with them on a daily basis.
At Trayvax, we take pride in knowing that our products are accompanying first responders when they find themselves in dire situations. It’s one of many reasons why we use the most durable products on the market.
If you are a first responder using Trayvax gear we would love to hear about your experience using our products. If it has made your occupation easier we would love to hear how! We honor first responders!
Cheers,
-The Trayvax Team
Brian Z - Trayvax Content Creator
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