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
