Working as a first responder can be a demanding profession. Emergency medical technicians (EMTs), firefighters and police officers often work long shifts. They may have to work on holidays and weekends.
In addition to being a demanding profession, working as a first responder is also relatively dangerous. Firefighters must run into burning buildings or extricate people from damaged vehicles after car crashes. Police officers have to protect people during criminal activity and apprehend individuals who may not be cooperative. EMTs have to be present at dangerous locations and deal with people experiencing all kinds of medical issues.
There are a number of hazards unique to each of those professions, but there are certain risks that most first responders experience. The following are some of the leading safety concerns for first responders.
Interpersonal violence
People breaking the law, experiencing medical emergencies or panicking during a fire can engage in volatile and unpredictable behavior. Their actions can injure the professionals attempting to help them. Interpersonal violence can cause injuries ranging from lacerations and broken bones to brain injuries. First responders may need time away to heal so that they can perform job functions safely. They may also need medical coverage to help pay for their treatment costs.
Traumatizing experiences
First responders in all sectors may have to witness horrifying events. They may see the aftermath of depraved criminal activity. They may arrive at the scene of a fire or car crash where there are deceased individuals, possibly including children. In some cases, they may be present when an individual dies. They may also experience scenarios that put their lives at risk. Those traumatizing experiences can lead to challenges continuing to work because of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Workers’ compensation can help first responders with PTSD caused by their work.
Exposure to dangerous substances
Firefighters, police officers and EMTs often have to access unsafe locations. Not only do they have to interact with people who may be ill and who could transmit pathogens, but they may also end up exposed to dangerous chemicals. First responders may be at elevated risk of contracting infectious diseases. They could also acquire cancer and other significant medical issues because of workplace chemical exposure.
Traveling to the scene of an emergency can also be a source of risk, as collisions can cause a range of debilitating medical issues.
First responders may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits when their jobs leave them sick or injured. Getting support while pursuing a workers’ compensation claim can improve a first responder’s chances of getting the benefits they need.