Some people have personalities where they appreciate a gag gift. Something small or useful around the house is good for others, while some retirees want things to decorate and display in their homes. There are many different gifts to give a retiree, you just have to be conscious of who you are getting the gift for. Once you decide what they would like, it’s time to pick out the perfect gift.
Gag/Fun Gifts
A firefighter ice cube tray creates ice cubes that come out in the shape of the traditional Maltese Cross, the emblem of firefighters. You could also put jello or chocolate into the trays to create snack cubes in the same shape. These are available online
A Monopoly: Firefighter Edition game makes a fun gift for the game lover. Going to jail is like going to the chief’s office, and you want to avoid that while you build as many stations on your property as possible. While circling the board, you try to avoid five alarm chili
Small Gifts
Key chains are the perfect small gift. They are able to fit in a pocket and still serve a purpose. There are many different designs out there, from the Maltese Cross emblem to the jaws of life to fire trucks, helmets and hydrants. Pick one that will most fit the retiree, or if you don’t know, pick them all. Items that daily remind them of their career will make them smile every time they look at it.
A knife is also a gift that will fit in the pocket. There are many different fire fighter edition knives on the market, it will be up to you to decide which will be perfect as a gift. There are pocket knives, liner folding knives, and others with the Maltese Cross imprinted on them, perfect for showing your loyalty to the fire department.
Display Gifts
Clocks make the perfect display either hanging on the wall or sitting on a desk. Many display the Maltese Cross while others have the Fireman’s Prayer engraved on it. Retirees are able to show their pride and remember their days on the force every time they look at their clock.
Bobble Head toys can also be displayed on a desk. They usually show a firefighter, dressed in all their gear, racing to a fire. Some can have a photo inserted in to the head space. This is a good place to put a photo of the retiree wearing their helmet. Others just have a bobble head wearing a helmet. They can be engraved with up to three lines of type, so you can commemorate the retirement occasion or years of service in the fire department.
Useful Gifts
Cookbooks are useful to firefighters who like to cook, and there is one out on the market that has recipes from fire departments from every state in the nation. With 175 recipes covering everything from breakfast to dessert, this is something a veteran firefighter will enjoy. It uses firefighting terminology and lingo which will make sense to the retiree and remind them of their days cooking in the firehouse.
Throw blankets could be put on the back of a couch or used while sitting on the couch. One depicting scenes from a firefighter’s life, such as fire stations, fire trucks, rescues and burning buildings. They can often be personalized with the retiree’s name, station number and years of service. This would be perfect for a retiree who likes to stay warm on the couch.
