Who Is Considered a First Responder in California?

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So, Who Is Considered a First Responder in California?

According to the California Emergency Services Act, a “first responder” is defined as an employee of a state or local public agency who provides emergency response services, including any of the following:

1. A peace officer, as defined in Section 830 of the Penal Code. This includes police officers, sheriffs, and deputy sheriffs.
2. A firefighter, as defined in Section 50925 of the Health and Safety Code. This includes firefighters, fire paramedics, and fire chiefs.
3. A paramedic, as defined in Section 1797.84 of the Health and Safety Code. This includes paramedics who provide advanced life support (ALS) care.
4. An emergency medical technician (EMT), as defined in Sections 1797.80 and 1797.82 of the Health and Safety Code. This includes EMTs who provide basic life support (BLS) care.
5. A public safety dispatcher or public safety telecommunicator. This includes dispatchers who answer 911 calls and provide emergency instructions to callers and first responders.

In addition to these specific categories, the definition of “first responder” in California has been interpreted more broadly to include other individuals who provide emergency services, such as:

• Lifeguards
• Ocean rescue personnel
• Search and rescue personnel
• Hazardous materials (HAZMAT) technicians
• Emergency medical service (EMS) personnel
• Volunteers with emergency response organizations

These individuals may not be considered “first responders” under the strict definition of the California Emergency Services Act, but they are often included in the broader definition of “first responder” because they play a critical role in providing emergency services to the public.

 

Who Are Typically The First Responders?

As per the findings of FirstResponderTips (FRT), It is important to note that the specific roles and responsibilities of first responders can vary depending on the jurisdiction.

However, all first responders share the common goal of providing life-saving care and assistance to those in need.

 

How Do You Prove You Are A First Responder in California?

Proving your first responder status in California typically involves presenting official documentation or credentials issued by the organization or agency you work for.

Here are some specific methods of proof:

1. First Responder Badge or ID Card: A valid badge or ID card issued by your employing fire department, police department, emergency medical service (EMS) agency, or other authorized first responder organization is a widely accepted form of proof.
2. Professional Certification or License: A valid professional certification or license, such as a paramedic’s license or an EMT certification, can serve as evidence of your first responder status.
3. Employment Verification Letter: An official letter from your employer specifically stating your position as a first responder within their organization can be used as proof of your status.
4. Retirement ID Card or Badge: If you are a retired first responder, your retired ID card or badge may still be accepted as proof of your status.
5. Military ID Card: For first responders who serve in the military, their military ID card can be used to verify their status.
6. Volunteer Service Documentation: If you are a volunteer first responder, documentation from your volunteer organization, such as a roster or service record, can be used to establish your status.
7. State or National Certification: Some first responder occupations, such as paramedics, may require state or national certification. Presenting your valid certification can serve as proof of your status.
8. ProBoard Certification: If you are a ProBoard-certified first responder, you can use your ProBoard certification number to verify your status through ID.me, an online identity verification service.

In some cases, you may be asked to provide additional documentation or undergo identity verification processes to confirm your first responder status.

The specific requirements may vary depending on the context in which you need to prove your status, such as applying for first responder discounts, benefits, or special programs.

 

Are 911 Dispatchers Considered First Responders in California?

Yes, 911 dispatchers are considered first responders in California. This recognition was formalized in 2020 when Assembly Bill 1945 (AB 1945) was signed into law.

This bill amended the California Emergency Services Act to explicitly include “public safety dispatchers or public safety telecommunicators” as part of the definition of “first responder.”

Prior to this legislation, 911 dispatchers were not officially recognized as first responders in California. This meant that they were not eligible for certain benefits and protections that were available to other first responders, such as access to mental health resources and discounts on services.

The passage of AB 1945 was a significant victory for 911 dispatchers in California. It recognized the crucial role that they play in the emergency response system and ensured that they would be treated with the same respect and support as other first responders.

Here are some of the reasons why 911 dispatchers are considered first responders:

• They are often the first point of contact for people in emergencies.
• They play a critical role in assessing the situation and dispatching the appropriate resources.
• They provide lifesaving instructions to callers until help arrives.
• They are exposed to the same level of trauma and stress as other first responders.

911 dispatchers are an essential part of the emergency response system in California. They deserve to be recognized and respected as first responders for the important work that they do.

source: California bill adds dispatchers as first responders – Homeland Preparedness News (homelandprepnews.com)

 

Are Lineman First Responders in California?

While linemen play a crucial role in maintaining and restoring power during emergencies, they are not typically considered first responders in California under the strict definition of the California Emergency Services Act.

This act specifically defines first responders as peace officers, firefighters, paramedics, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and public safety dispatchers or public safety telecommunicators.

However, linemen are often recognized as “essential personnel” or “critical infrastructure workers” due to their importance in maintaining the functioning of critical infrastructure, such as the power grid.

This recognition acknowledges their significant contributions to public safety and well-being, particularly in times of emergencies when power outages can have severe consequences.

Linemen may also be involved in emergency response efforts in some instances, such as assisting with downed power lines or working in hazardous conditions to restore power after natural disasters.

In these cases, they may be considered “auxiliary first responders” or “supplemental emergency personnel.”

source: Petition · Linemen Should Not Be Recognized as First Responders · Change.org

 

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