This September marks twenty-five years since 9/11. The deadliest day in the history of the American fire service, 343 firefighters walked into the two towers and didn’t walk out.. A quarter century later, every station in the country keeps a version of that day close.
Three years before that day, two Orange County firefighters were lost in the line of duty. At the time, there was no robust federal or state system built to support a firefighter's family in what came after. Their union, the Orange County Professional Firefighters, IAFF Local 3631, built one. They created the Fallen Firefighter Relief Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, to support those families in their most critical time of need. Built to move fast when a department and a family need it most.
Through the years their mission has remained the same, but their reach and impact has grown immensely. What started for two families has become a lifeline for firefighters, first responders, and their families across the nation, offering support during catastrophic events,line-of-duty deaths, and the moments that don’t wait for paperwork to catch up. To date, it’s put roughly $3.5 million directly into the hands of families who needed it.
The need hasn’t gotten smaller. Sudden cardiac events remain the leading cause of firefighter line-of-duty deaths, accounting for nearly 45% of fatalities in recent years. A landmark NIOSH study of nearly 30,000 career firefighters found a 9% higher rate of cancer diagnoses and a 14% higher rate of cancer related deaths compared to the general population. Dangers from fires and events they respond to last well beyond their shift, carcinogens they are exposed to on the scene can settle into their gear, skin, and lungs long after the truck has returned to the station. Years of responding to thousands of critical calls has a lasting impact on the mental health of every first responder. These are the risks they face when wearing the badge, lasting years beyond their service.
Designed with the Local 3631 Union of Orange County Firefighters to support the Fallen Firefighter Relief Fund. The Odysea Rope features details unique to every firefighter, built to be worn by everyone to show their support of our first responders. The Local 3631 Union crest with crossed fireman axes behind, a flame set into the ThumbSeal, and a representation of the Static Kernmantle Rope every department uses during rescues. Most importantly, the interior liner features the names of the 20 Orange County firefighters who have lost their lives in the line-of-duty.
The Odysea Rope 3631 launched on September 11, with a portion of proceeds from every sale donated to the Fallen Firefighter Relief Fund. We are proud to support their mission and hope you are as well.
To learn more about the Fallen Firefighter Relief Fund, click here.