First Responders Role In Emergency Responses

In an emergency, whether natural disaster or terrorist event, the most important role is that of first responders. First responders’ jobs are to be the first on the scene in any kind of event and provide various types of response. Some first responders are law enforcement whose first goal is to neutralize the suspect. Others are trained as firefighters to combat fire, structural damage, and rescue as many victims as they can. Most people think of emergency medical technicians (EMTs) or paramedics when they think about first responders. These are the individuals tasked with assessing medical care and providing treatment to as many people as they can to minimize loss of life. All of these types of first responders have one thing in common- they all are trained and prepared for various situations, some which could endanger more victims or even themselves, as well as
Natural responses like pouring water on a wound caused by hazardous material can cause unintended damage if first responders are not able to identify hazardous materials. As first responders, they are responsible for “identifying the materials involved, determining the risk or hazard posed by the spill, calling for additional resources, isolating the scene, providing first aid, fighting the fire and protecting against explosions,” and keeping the public informed of existing hazards (An Introduction to Hazardous Materials: Unit 5, pg. 5-6). Preparation and readiness for these types of events is needed to prevent first responders from “becoming victims” (An Introduction to Hazardous Materials: Unit 5, pg. 5-6). This preparation should include specialty equipment and what first responders without necessary equipment can do until those with the proper resources can respond and assist (An Introduction to Hazardous Materials: Unit 5, pg.