Response to Critical Incidents “A to Z”

Today’s criminals and terrorists are more determined and heavily armed than ever before, and crisis situations such as threats, illicit labs, civil unrest, active shooters, barricaded subjects, and hostage takings are occurring with alarming frequency. Increasingly, fire and emergency medical service (EMS) responders are finding themselves drawn into these types of events, many of which cannot be resolved or negotiated peacefully. One important note to remember is that active hate groups and extremists are in all 50 states.

大规模枪击事件可能涉及众多的反应casualties; they may be ongoing on your arrival and may be long-term events. Law enforcement, fire, and EMS personnel all share some of the same priorities during a mass-shooting event. Planning and interagency cooperation should be paramount. Several issues need to be addressed during the planning phase. Law enforcement will need fire and EMS coverage and equipment (vehicles, ladders, breaching tools, fire extinguishers, trauma packs) during the event. EMS may need to provide tactical medics and set up several triage areas away from the scene. Law enforcement will need to provide security and “over watch” for the fire and EMS units entering the “hot zone” or crime scene. There is tremendous need for an immediate coordinated effort among all agencies to ensure a safe and effective response. Responder safety is paramount.

One excellent tool to assist public safety agencies in planning for mass shootings is the “Wanton Violence at Columbine High School Technical Report,” available from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at http://www.usfa.fema.gov/applications/publications/tr128.cfm. This report is an in-depth analysis of the fire and EMS operations and the overall response to the assault on Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado, on April 20, 1999. Incident command, special operations, and mass-casualty emergency medical services are featured. This report is available at no cost and also comes with a CD-ROM containing audio and video clips compiled by the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office. The report contains a wealth of information and numerous lessons learned to assist with the planning process.