First Responders’ Day will be a day of recognition, not a holiday, but is intended to honour and celebrate the dedication, sacrifices and achievements of all professional and volunteer first responders in the province.
“Every day, first responders place themselves in harm’s way to keep us safe. They are our province’s heroes, and they deserve a day of recognition for the essential role they play in the safety of our communities,” said Premier Houston. “We want them to know we appreciate the important work they do to help others.”
First responders include volunteers or professionals who are responsible for:
- protection and preservation of life
- property
- evidence and the environment during an emergency such as police
- firefighters
- military personnel
- auxiliary coast guard members
- paramedics
- dispatchers
- doctors
- nurses
- medical evacuation pilots
- mental health providers
- emergency managers
- tow truck drivers
- ground search and rescue volunteers
Ontario was the first province to pass this legislation in 2013.
The legislation will take effect upon royal assent.
