What graduation gift do you give a firefighter for graduating from the fire academy?

Question

My boyfriend is graduating from the fire academy in a few weeks and I am trying to think of something to give him as a gift. I want it to be firefighter related. Is there something that I could give him that he could use as part of his job? I got a suggestion about giving a "gear bag". Is that practical? Would he use one? Is there anything else that might be a nice gift that I could give him to show him how proud of him I am?

Answer 1

This is going to sound stupid, but I would actually ask another fire fighter before buying anything I would want him to use on the job (I'm sure they have regulations for what kind of gear they use, even the type of bag it's in).  I know they usually have to stay at the fire house when they're on duty, so maybe think in terms of something he could use when he's at the fire station, but not out fighting a fire.  Or, ask another fire fighter (seriously, but then, I'd ask anyone anything!).

Answer 2

How about a well-framed handmade portraits or painting showing him or his colleagues with all their gear.You can find more such ideas at http://www.paintyourlife.com

They make all types of personalized and unique portraits on oil, pencil, charcoal, etc.

They also do wonderful photo-printing on canvas in different designs. Please take a look at http://www.photo-print-on-canvas.com for more information.

 

Answer 3

There is actually a company that caters to this type of situation called Our Designs. They have a great selection collectibles and novelties as well as T-shirts and equipment.

In regards to buying your boyfriend something he could us, I would avoid buying him any equipment or any type of tools. In this field, as with most, you really need to buy those things yourself. You choose your tools based on your preference, your needs, and the comfort of using the tool. The only person that can decide what tool you'll like would be yourself.

Also, many departments have regulations and guidelines about bringing outside equipment in, and he may not be allowed to use it at the department.

A gear bag would be useful. However, if he plans on keeping his gear at the hall (some departments don't let members take their gear home) it'll be relatively worthless for hauling gear.

The best thing I could suggest is a T-shirt or two. They let him show that he is proud of accomplishing the class. Also, they're very convenient to have around when you have calls and you don't want to show up wearing jeans and a plain T-shirt. It looks a little more professional.

The company I mentioned earlier has many great ideas, and I'm sure you can find something that he would like.

Good luck in finding something.