Published date: October 6, 2026
We hope everyone will join us in celebrating National First Responders Day on October 28 as we recognize the people who help keep our communities safe.
Public works professionals are an important part of emergency response and recovery. During hurricanes, floods, winter storms, and other emergencies, our crews are often among the first to arrive and the last to leave. They clear roads, manage stormwater, remove debris, help restore infrastructure, and do whatever is needed to help our communities recover.
We encourage APWA-NC members to help shine a light on the role public works plays during emergencies. Consider talking with your city or county manager, mayor, or elected officials about issuing a National First Responders Day proclamation recognizing public works professionals along with our partners in fire, law enforcement, EMS, emergency management, and other response agencies.
A sample proclamation, along with PSAs, logos, flyers and more, is available to make it easy (see link below). October 28 is another great opportunity to celebrate our public works professionals and recognize the important work they do for our communities every day, especially when they are needed most.