DrParasite
The fire extinguisher is not just for show
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until you realize that the IAFF, IAFC, and every other hose handling department and hose supporting union would lobby against it. Also don't forget, the fire service is the largest provider of EMS in the US (at least according to the National EMS Assessment).NAEMT, IBSC, IAFCCP, and other professional organizations as well as you and I have to lobby for the NREMT to implement an EMS AAS requirement for new and continued certification. It will be much easier to get industry leaders and the single national credentialing body (in a sense) to do something rather than an untold number of employers. That’s the best strategy in my opinion.
Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying it shouldn't happen, and it would be the most efficient way to implement this change for all new hires, however there are a few HUGE hurdles to overcome (namely the fire service and all of their public supporters and lobbyists). it's easier to start locally, where you have more pull, vs starting nationally and fighting those groups that don't want there to be any degree requirements, because it's not a primary responsibility of their organization.