“We were dispatched on an EMS call and, upon arrival, found approximately six police cars and six officers around a handcuffed individual who had been tazed. We learned that we had two patients, the individual in custody (Patient One) and a police officer who had suffered some minor injuries. Patient One had been involved in a spoiled criminal act and was tazed after reaching for his gun. The patient received some minor injuries as a result of the fall. The ambulance arrived and treated the police officer while fire personnel treated Patient One. Approximately 10 minutes after our arrival, it was inquired as to whether or not the suspect had been searched. The two police officers standing near us could not answer the question. As the fire officer on scene, I requested a police officer to search the patient. During the search the police officer immediately found a second loaded gun along with additional ammunition, both of which were easily accessible to the patient. The firearm was secured and then the scene was safe.”
Crime scenes take firefighters and EMS workers into environs that range from mundane to high risk. The aftermath of violence brings our industry into risk arenas that are not as easily confined, controlled or predictable as structure fires. We study fire behavior, read smoke, and make predictions about real fire travel based on the flammability of contents. However, many of those principles are useless when it comes to predicting the human element. Once you have read the entire account (CLICK HERE), consider the following:
- What procedures do you follow to ensure scene safety when you arrive at a crime scene?
- How familiar are you with the law enforcement counterparts in your response area?
- Where does your agency fit into the law enforcement incident command system at a scene where a violent patient is in custody?
- Do you have any knowledge of or familiarity with handgun safety?
- Suppose the handgun fell from the patient’s pocket. Should you pick it up?
Have you found yourself involved in a near miss with a violent, or potentially violent, person? Submit your report to www.firefighternearmiss.com today so everyone goes home tomorrow.
Note: The questions posed by the reviewers are designed to generate discussion and thought in the name of promoting firefighter safety. They are not intended to pass judgment on the actions and performance of individuals in the reports.
