NCJ Number
129965
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 39 Issue: 5 Dated: (May 1991) Pages: 77-79
Date Published
1991
Length
3 pages
Annotation
Conflicts between police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical services (EMS) can occur at scenes of emergencies when overlapping responsibilities and approaches are not resolved through open communication. The result can be jeopardy to the very people these public servants are trying to help.
Abstract
Education and training can resolve potential conflicts before they occur. Some police departments are requiring officers to complete basic life support and emergency medical training courses alongside EMS personnel. But communication between agencies must begin at the top; the National Accreditation Association (NAA) requires twice-yearly joint command staff meetings between police and fire departments. Professionalism displayed by officers of different agencies can avoid long-term grudges, promote the agencies' public images, and ensure that emergencies are handled in the best possible way.