Until recently, EMTs have been prohibited from carrying concealed weapons while on duty. However, there has been a growing trend of deregulation of firearm restrictions, including changes to regulations that have banned firearms in state parks and forests. Now, the winds of change have come to EMTs, with recent legislation that has revised these regulations and for the first time allows EMTs the right to carry firearms.
Opponents of the change have several concerns:
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EMTs may not have the time to put into weapons training and maintain the necessary skill in gun handling.
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Violence against EMTs is not a problem sufficient to justify the changes.
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Carrying weapons might encourage bravado among EMTs and discourage them from backing down in dangerous situations.
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Weapons might prove a danger to the EMTs and others if a third party were to get control of the weapon.
Supporters of this change dispute the above claims, and note the rights accorded by the Second Amendment and the general safety afforded by being able to carry a weapon. Often, EMTs are the first at a crime scene, and carrying a firearm might be the only way to ensure their protection.
All sides can agree, however, that the safety of EMTs and other first responders is of paramount importance, and that we must do whatever is needed to minimize injuries to first responders and to help them in the event of injury.
Posted in Personal Injury
Tagged EMTs, firearms, personal injury attorney, Second Amendment
