Poll Call: Should paramedics be allowed to carry guns on duty?
A comparison in polls shows a dramatic shift in how EMS providers perceive the need to arm paramedics
Green, Ohio, tactical paramedics are now permitted to carry handguns when called out to assist the sheriff's SWAT following a change in state law and the urging of Summit County Sheriff Steve Barry.
"The tactical paramedics' role will not change; it is an extra layer of safety security for them and for patients they are taking care of," Summit County Sheriff Steve Barry commented.
We asked EMS1 readers in a poll, “Should paramedics be allowed to carry guns on duty?” Here is a breakdown of the results.

These results show a shift in EMS perception of the need to carry weapons on duty. In a 2017 poll, just 9% of respondents said EMS providers should be allowed to carry a concealed handgun while on duty in any circumstance, while 22% said EMS providers shout not be allowed to carry a concealed handgun while on duty.
In the February 2020 poll, only 9% of respondents say paramedics should not be allowed to carry guns on duty.

Do you think EMTs or paramedics working in concert with law enforcement in a tactical capacity should carry handguns? What about in other situations? Weigh in by commenting below or emailing us at editor@ems1.com.
Additional resources on arming EMS providers
Learn more about allowing EMTs or paramedics to carry guns on duty with these resources from EMS1:
- Arming the EMS Workforce
- Is concealed carry a good option for EMS providers?
- What should EMS providers consider before carrying a concealed weapon on duty?
- Tactical medics approved to carry handguns
- Tactical paramedics should be allowed to carry firearms, Ohio fire chief says
- Fla. agencies arming tactical paramedics after change in law

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