First responders are not fully appreciated

First responders are underappreciated. These grassroot heroes have made a commitment with themselves to always put others first no matter what the situation maybe. They are beyond the point of caring for people, they are willing to risk their lives. Have you ever heard anyone say that responder did not save me because I am this color, gender, this religion, this weight, or live in this community? First responders witness trauma and violence day in and out.

What do first responders do? A first responder is an umbrella term for the first medically trained person to arrive on the scene of a medical emergency, accident, or other issue of public safety, this title includes police officers, firefighters, or EMTs. They are responsible for quickly and competently assessing a situation and determining what other EMTs, police officers, or firefighters need to know when they arrive. Every community should be very thankful for the first responders in their communities again these men and women have such a selfless heart for others that they seek training to be able to administer help in someone’s hour of need. Despite their own personal daily challenges, they are ready for that phone call to help the weak, injured, and scared without thinking twice. Whereas others will drive or walk by without bothering themselves with dangerous situation. These men and women are always ready to serve and protect. First responders are not paid enough considering the demanding and stressful responsibilities. The national average salary for a first responder is $48,561 per year. However, the exact salary estimate for this role depends on several factors, such as the first responder's geographical location, employer, experience, certifica-

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‘A Political View’ By Sherry Hollilman SHERRY HOLLIMAN (cont.)

tions, academic achievements and skill set.

When communities have a team of properly trained first responders, they can feel safe and secure knowing that help is always a phone call away.

Every community and municipality should support their team of first responders to ensure they are well equipped to handle any emergency situation that may arise. These grassroot men and women have families and must find a balance in their choice and potential of every risk at any time.

Your first responders courageously and selflessly risk their lives every day to protect their communities often suffering serious injuries or even death because of their heroic actions.

Every compassionate responder is a necessary element to their community and respecting each other as humans should always be a reminder to help each other. And to be extremely thankful to those who help you, and to be grateful for all those that sacrifice their time to help another in their time of need.

You will always gain by giving but remembering to be grateful to those that incur sacrifice on our behalf is always worthy of thankfulness.

Sherry Holliman is a concerned citizen of Crittenden County and has some views on a variety of topics that she wants to share with her neighbors. She serves on the Marion City Council.