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I've seen rescue done all sorts of ways.
In PA, every ambulance is required to have some form of toolbox with tools, including a tool for cutting/prying for rescue. I know of IFT companies that have gotten away with an old lawnmower blade.
I've seen some agencies that expect EMS to be in the vehicle, providing care, and as the medic, I've been looked at by the Fire OIC to "direct" the rescue - do we go slow and carefully, or as rapid as possible, or somewhere in between.
I've also seen services where the Rescue company FF's are mostly experienced EMS providers, and the Fire guys end up in the car, and direct the rescue, with limited input from EMS.
I've seen other systems that are in between.
I've also seen a unified County service, where (almost) EVERYONE is at least an EMT, and many folks on the ambulance are also Fire folks. Rescue is left to the Rescue staff, with some consult by medics, and there is happiness and sunshine.
In PA, every ambulance is required to have some form of toolbox with tools, including a tool for cutting/prying for rescue. I know of IFT companies that have gotten away with an old lawnmower blade.
I've seen some agencies that expect EMS to be in the vehicle, providing care, and as the medic, I've been looked at by the Fire OIC to "direct" the rescue - do we go slow and carefully, or as rapid as possible, or somewhere in between.
I've also seen services where the Rescue company FF's are mostly experienced EMS providers, and the Fire guys end up in the car, and direct the rescue, with limited input from EMS.
I've seen other systems that are in between.
I've also seen a unified County service, where (almost) EVERYONE is at least an EMT, and many folks on the ambulance are also Fire folks. Rescue is left to the Rescue staff, with some consult by medics, and there is happiness and sunshine.