National EMS Week

Categories:: Appreciation
Tags:: Career
Where:: United States
Date change rule:: Week starting with the 3rd Sunday of May
Holiday emoji:: 🚑

National EMS Week recognizes the unwavering commitment of Emergency Medical Services professionals every third full week of May. From paramedics to EMTs, these frontline heroes provide critical care, often in life-threatening situations. Take time this week to express gratitude, learn about their vital work, and support initiatives that strengthen EMS capabilities in your community.

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Expected National EMS Week Deals

During National EMS Week, appreciation programs for emergency medical service professionals are common. Many local businesses, restaurants, and retailers offer special discounts or freebies for verified EMS personnel, often requiring an ID. Look for offers from chains like Starbucks, Dunkin’, and Subway, which frequently extend gratitude to first responders. Medical supply companies such as Bound Tree Medical and Henry Schein may run promotions on equipment or training resources for EMS agencies. Additionally, organizations like the National Association of EMTs (NAEMT) and the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) often highlight corporate partners who support EMS through donations or special programs. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as May 2027 approaches.

Platform Guide for National EMS Week

Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #NationalEMSWeek. Share stories of EMS professionals making a difference in the workplace or community.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #NationalEMSWeek. Join conversations about EMS advocacy, share appreciation, or highlight local EMS heroes.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalEMSWeek. Organize a community appreciation event or share resources for supporting local EMS.

National EMS Week Hero

Dr. R. Adams Cowley

Known as the 'Father of Trauma Medicine,' Dr. Cowley established the world's first civilian trauma center at the University of Maryland in 1961. His pioneering work in emergency medical care and the 'golden hour' concept significantly advanced the field of EMS, emphasizing rapid treatment for critically injured patients. His vision laid the groundwork for modern trauma systems and the critical role of paramedics.

History of National EMS Week

In November 1974, President Gerald Ford announced and authorized the first National Emergency Medical Services Week from November 3 to November 10. This was to celebrate the emergency medical services and the amazing and important work they do. Not long before in 1973, an act was introduced called the EMS Systems Act which provided money for the creation of 300+ EMS systems throughout the country with the intent of future growth. By 1975, 32 residencies were offered to physicians across the nation which were preparing them for further emergencies at all levels.

The American College of Physicians were influential in establishing EMS week when President Ford declared it in 1974. The national week was reinstituted by ACEP in 1982 and this was around the time that EMS week was moved to September yearly.

In the 1980’s, ACEP started collecting ideas and distributing information about and for EMS Week. They developed things like professional marketing materials and EMS Week Planning Kits. In 1992, it was again moved to the week beginning May 3. This was because there needed to be a clear separation between EMS week and Fire Prevention Week. There was an obvious issue amongst fire and EMS services staff who felt that having the two events too close to each other was affecting the aim of each program.

In the last 10 years, EMS has been vital to emergency medicine and to saving lives. Medical emergencies and situations faced by all medical practitioners require quick problem solving and years of training. As the field expands, EMS will always be front line when it comes to emergencies and emergency medicines. At present, 25,000 EMS Week planning guides are given out free of charge to fire departments, EMS services, rescue squads, volunteers and emergency departments all over the US.

National EMS Week timeline

2019

Medical breakthrough

In South Africa, the week was used to address challenges paramedics face.

2006

Serving lives

The theme in 2006 was ‘‘EMS: Serving on Health Care’s Front Line.’’

1999

Training for Columbine

Columbine High School had a student attack, and the American Red Cross incorporated defibrillator training into its CPR course.

1979

A pair of medics

The American Ambulance association was formed.

1968

Call for help

AT&T designated the number 911 for emergency use.

How Businesses Can Celebrate National EMS Week

Local businesses can show their appreciation for EMS professionals during National EMS Week by offering special discounts or complimentary meals for those in uniform or with valid ID. Consider sponsoring a meal for a local EMS station or donating supplies to their facility. Businesses can also host appreciation events, share positive stories about local EMS on social media, or partner with a local agency to raise awareness about emergency preparedness in the community. These gestures not only recognize their hard work but also foster stronger community ties.

National EMS Week FAQs

When is National EMS Week?

In 2026, National EMS Week runs from Sunday, May 17, through Saturday, May 23. It’s a vital time to honor the dedication of emergency medical service professionals.

How many EMS professionals are there in the U.S.?

According to the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT), there are approximately 270,000 nationally certified EMS professionals in the U.S. This includes EMTs, AEMTs, and paramedics.

What is the history of EMS Week?

National EMS Week was first established in 1974 by President Gerald Ford. It aimed to recognize the critical contributions of emergency medical services to public health and safety, promoting awareness and support for these essential workers.

What is the difference between an EMT and a Paramedic?

An EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) provides basic life support, including CPR, oxygen administration, and splinting. A Paramedic, with more extensive training, can perform advanced life support, such as administering medications, intubation, and advanced cardiac care.

National EMS Week Activities

Feed the team
If you work in the emergency medical services, feed your colleagues, team and friends at work. Have a cookout or bake and bring food to work. Feed their souls with breakfast, lunch and dinner and see their spirits lift so they can get back to work with a smile.
Create an EMT of the year award
To further praise EMT’s throughout the country, give out awards during the week to those deserving of different titles like “doctor of the year,” “nurse of the year,” or “agency of the year.”
Say thank you
A simple thank you goes a long way. Find people who work in EMS, such as a practitioner or a paramedic, and genuinely thank them for their work.

5 Facts About EMS

Statistically…
In the Emergency Medical Services World, awareness and recognition are the best ways to prepare for an emergency.
Wheeled into nowhere
Being able to navigate unfamiliar environments during an emergency makes for a great way to treat mass casualties.
Just say no
EMS systems are now experts on educating communities on the rising opioid crisis.
Doctors practice
Most bystanders on a scene are trained over the phone on how to save lives before rescuers arrive.
Medical duty
Each year, 1.5 million Americans get sepsis, and EMS play a vital role in identifying it early.

Why We Love National EMS Week

Beyond the call
EMS week helps to unify and inspire the EMS workers who work so hard saving lives every day. It brings local communities and medical professionals together to promote safety and to honor the dedication of the ones on the frontline.
Tell everyone
Promotional material used on EMS week and EMS day is financially supported by companies like ACEP. Staff are also provided to promote the week to support publicizing the cause. We love the daily themes that differ each year, allowing this week to be rich with activities. Social media plays a big role too, as people share their EMS week on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Prepare for the worst
We love EMS professionals because they plan, adapt and respond to care for everyday citizens. They save lives and are vital to our society. In turn, it is fundamental that we show appreciation for them too, by celebrating EMS week enthusiastically.