By Bill Carey
FireRescue1/EMS1
National First Responders Day may not be a significant shopping event for most people, but it holds special significance for first responders, not only as it is a day to show appreciation to other first responders but also as a time to accept thanks and praise from others.
Although many first responders are reluctant to boast their successes, one simple way to embrace thanks from others is by accepting discounts and other offerings from retailers that want to show their gratitude to fire and EMS professionals.
Check out this roundup of how some businesses are showing their recognition for National First Responders Day. Note: If you are aware of any additional offerings, let us know, and we’ll include them in our list.
LIMITED TIME OFFERS
LEGOLAND is saying thank you to first responders and military service members by offering a free 1-Day 1-Park ticket to LEGOLAND Florida and 50% off tickets for up to six guests visiting with the service member. This offer is available until Nov. 30.
Lowe’s is offering an exclusive set of coupons with offers up to $1,500 in savings for first responders until Oct. 31.
Tortuga Backpacks is offering a 20% discount on its carry-on-sized travel backpacks. The offer expires on Dec. 31.
Through Nov. 2, JCPenney is offering “The WorkShop,” a special assortment of “hardworking” men’s and women’s fashion focused on the first responder community – think Dickie’s, CAT, Berne, Wrangler and similar brands. A portion of the sales from the curation will be matched by JCPenney, up to $100,000, for a donation benefitting the American Red Cross, going straight to resources for Red Cross First Responder Training Courses. Additionally, from Oct. 27 to Nov. 2, eligible firefighters, police officers, emergency nurses and EMTs can receive an extra 10% off storewide when they show their badge in-store.
Maxi-Cosi is offering a special discount of 25% off from Oct. 24 to Nov. 16 to first responders on its line of car seats, strollers and infant furniture.
TRAVEL
First responders can choose from more than 500 itineraries and receive an onboard credit of US $100 per stateroom when they book a new cruise with Holland America Line. The offer includes select 2023 and 2024 cruises.
CheapCaribbean Vacations is offering $50 off their next beach vacay with code TREAT50 to first responders. The Rescue2Relax Club features all-inclusive beach deals exclusively for first responders.
Beaches Resorts is offering an additional 10% off on top of all of its special promotions to first responders and military service members.
DINING
Firehouse Subs is offering a free medium sub with the purchase of any medium sub to first responders in uniform or with a valid work ID from Oct. 23 – 29.
Carrabba’s Italian Grill is thanking service members and first responders with a 10% Off Heroes Discount with any visit.
#FirstResponders, swirl in on Saturday, October 28th for your first 6 oz. FREE! As a thank you for your service, First Responders with a valid ID can enjoy a treat on us.
— TCBY (@TCBY) October 23, 2023
*Valid at select locations 10.28.23. Exclusions apply. #NationalFirstRespondersDay pic.twitter.com/6b0vOsWdbX
Fire Department Coffee is offering a 20% discount throughout the month of October to active military, veterans, first responders and emergency dispatchers.
HOMEAshley Furniture is thanking first responders with a 5% discount on its selection of living room, dining room, bedroom, and outdoor furniture.
LoveSac is offering an additional 10% off their sectionals and other merchandise, on top of their 30% off Heroes discount, to first responders through SheerID.
Note: If you are aware of any additional offerings, let us know, and we’ll include them in our list.