International Firefighters Day Shines Light on Emergency Responders

LANSING, MI - Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer proclaimed May 4, 2026, International Firefighters’ Day, recognizing the courage and dedication of Michigan’s firefighters. The state is home to more than 1,000 fire departments and over 19,000 active firefighters who serve their communities every day.

“Every day across our state, firefighters rush toward danger to save people, pets, and property,” said Governor Whitmer. “It’s up to us to have their backs, which is why we’ve invested almost $2 billion across seven bipartisan budgets to support first responders and keep people safe. This International Firefighters Day, I encourage every Michigander to recognize the incredible work and selfless sacrifice of our firefighters and first responders. Let’s keep working together to move Michigan forward.”

“We celebrate firefighters for their dedication, professionalism, and selflessness, and we recognize the critical role that training plays in keeping them safe—both physically and mentally,” said Marlon I. Brown, Director of the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). “LARA is proud to continue supporting firefighter training and preparedness, so these first responders have the tools and support they need.”

“The commitment firefighters make every day to protect the public deserves our deepest gratitude,” said State Fire Marshal Tom Hughes. “International Firefighters’ Day is an opportunity to thank the firefighters in our communities for their resilience, service, and sacrifice.”

Residents can mark the day by taking steps to improve home safety. Creating and practicing a fire escape plan and ensuring smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working properly can protect families and reduce risk for residents and firefighters.

To further protect Michigan residents, MI Prevention—a statewide community risk reduction effort led by LARA in partnership with the State Fire Marshal’s Office—continues to work with local fire departments and community partners to advance fire and life safety education across the state. Michiganders can learn more at www.MIPrevention.org.

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