As a first responder, you know how much it means to feel support from your community. We’ve rounded up some ideas for how people can show support for their local law enforcement, fire, and other public safety agencies. Share this video with your followers and community to give them ideas for ways to help. You can even do some of these things as a responder, for a responder. Show your support for your local neighboring agencies–it always feels good to be appreciated.

• Buy a Meal or Treat. You can show them thanks by paying for their meal at a restaurant or fast food place or give them a gift card to use to eat on for their next meal. Or, bring cookies or other baked goods to your local station or department and leave them for the staff and first responders to enjoy.
• Participate in neighborhood watch. Citizens can help police maintain public safety through neighborhood watch groups. Neighborhood watch members receive training on how to organize particular areas and methods for communicating with the police and with their neighbors.
• Don’t become a victim. Take steps to protect yourself and make their jobs that much easier–lock up your valuables, take safety precautions around fires, and be aware of your surroundings.
• Schedule a tour. Many public safety agencies are more than willing to offer tours to youth groups, such as schools, scouting organizations, homeschool groups, church groups and clubs. Giving children an insider look at the daily operations of a police department or other public safety agency can have a significant positive impact on how they view this important work.

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