Complimentary Offers And Discounts Available During National Ems Week

National EMS Week provides an opportunity for emergency medical services personnel to access various complimentary offers and discounts from participating brands and organizations. The available information highlights specific deals on apparel, gear, and services that are accessible to first responders during this period, as well as suggestions for agencies looking to provide internal recognition through giveaways and events.

Discounted Merchandise and Apparel

Several retailers offer exclusive discounts on gear and clothing for emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics. These offers typically require verification of first responder status.

• Academy Sports + Outdoors: Academy is offering a 10% first responder discount for in-store and online purchases. This offer is valid through July 4. To access this discount, first responders must complete ID.Me verification.
• Carhartt: Carhartt offers a 15% discount on entire purchases for eligible individuals. Verification of eligibility is required through ID.Me to take advantage of this promotion.
• GALLS: GALLS provides EMS Week deals specifically on apparel, bags, and stethoscopes. These deals are available without the need for a promo code.
• American Tall: This specialty clothing retailer, which caters to tall men and women, offers savings on all shorts, swimwear, and T-shirts. The promotion is valid until May 20th, and the promo code SPLASH30 is required to shop the deals.
• ExpertVoice: First responders can save up to 60% on top brands such as Stanley, Brooks, Vortex, and Oakley through ExpertVoice. New members receive a $15 welcome coupon to use on their first order.

Vehicle and Technology Offers

• GM First Responder Appreciation: General Motors offers an appreciation program available on select Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac vehicles. Interested parties should check their eligibility and view which vehicles are part of the promotion.

Educational and Entertainment Offers

• Grizzly Confidential eBook: Author Kevin Grange, a former paramedic and park ranger, offers his Kindle eBook "Grizzly Confidential" at an 83% discount from May 12-18.

Agency-Organized Giveaways and Swag

Organizations can celebrate EMS Week by hosting events and distributing customized swag to their teams. While these are not direct-to-consumer free samples, they represent complimentary items distributed during the observance.

• Catered Luncheons and Swag Distribution: Hosting a catered luncheon combined with a giveaway of customized swag is a recommended celebration method.
  • Practical Giveaway Items: Suggestions for practical items to include in giveaways are Sani-Spray Pens, iDisk 5W Wireless Chargers, Heathered 4000 mAh Powerbank Padfolios, Deluxe 15” Computer Backpacks, and Cork Wellness Rollers.
  • Distribution Methods: Agencies can set up tables with customized covers for EMTs to choose items, incorporate an activity like a Winning Spins Prize Wheel, or place personalized gift bags at table settings.
• Low-Budget Gift Bags: For agencies operating under budget constraints, assembling simple branded gift bags with affordable and popular items is a viable option.
• Tech Accessories: As EMTs are deskless employees who are always on the move, tech accessories are highlighted as useful gifts to keep devices charged and protected.

Community Engagement and Event Ideas

The source data also outlines various activities and events that agencies can organize during EMS Week, which may involve community interaction or educational outreach.

• Public Events: Ideas include hosting a free park event or seeking sponsorship from local businesses for activities like mini-golf.
• Building Lighting: Scheduling a special lighting of a local building in EMS colors (yellow, white, and blue) is suggested as a way to celebrate the profession.
• Career and Recruitment Events: Agencies are encouraged to hold career fairs to promote the EMS profession and highlight equipment and career growth. This is also an opportune time to promote volunteer EMS and firefighting opportunities.
• Student and School Engagement: Recognizing students in educational and cadet programs through website write-ups or social media is recommended. Agencies can also plan school visits to teach young students about the EMS profession and build trust.
• Community Programs: Setting up a Rider Alert Program, which provides free identification data cards for motorcyclists, helps first responders provide rapid medical assistance.
• Fun Runs and Vehicle Tours: Hosting a fun run, walk, or bike event is a healthy way to bond with colleagues. Agencies can also host vehicle tours, inviting the public to view helicopters and rescue equipment, as demonstrated by Travis County Star Flight.
• Blood Drives and CPR Training: Hosting a blood drive in partnership with the American Red Cross highlights the importance of prehospital blood transfusions. Agencies can also participate in the Worldwide CPR Challenge to train community members in CPR.

Conclusion

During National EMS Week, first responders have access to a variety of discounted merchandise from retailers such as Academy, Carhartt, and GALLS, typically accessible through ID.Me verification. Additionally, agencies have numerous options for recognizing their staff through internal giveaways of practical items like tech accessories and wellness products. Community-focused events, including career fairs, school visits, and public safety demonstrations, are also key components of the observance.

Sources

1. Crestline - EMT Gift Ideas for National EMS Week
2. EMS Week - 51 Ways to Celebrate EMS Week
3. EMS1 - National EMS Week Discounts and Deals