NCJ Number
229413
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 57 Issue: 10 Dated: October 2009 Pages: 58-61
Date Published
October 2009
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article examines the benefits, concerns, and implementation of a public safety delivery system that combines police, fire, and emergency medical services (EMS) into some version of a hybrid public safety model that fulfills the functions and spirit of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's (DHS's) "all-hazards approach" to public safety.
Abstract
Most local governments began examining cross-training their personnel to perform a blend of public-safety functions because of the financial benefits it offers for more cost-effective provision of emergency services. Relevant studies of show that a group of cross-trained personnel can perform the same task that would require 60-80 percent more personnel to perform as single-discipline personnel. An examination of such systems already in existence has revealed challenges in three areas: maintaining multiple training regimens and required job proficiencies, maintaining sufficient personnel in order to safely and professionally respond to major incidents, and maintain the safety of responders and those they serve despite a demanding work schedule. The effects of sleep deprivation on cross-trained personnel bring the safety of both the employees and those they serve to the forefront. Although little study has been done on the specific effects on cross-trained personnel, many studies have been separately conducted on the effects of sleep deprivation on police officers and firefighters. One of the lessons learned from efforts to establish a cross-training system is that time is required in carefully examining the options with all involved stakeholders, whether or not cross-training is instituted. Some departments have chosen to "partially" cross-train, using a single command structure that directs police officers, firefighters, and a small contingent of cross-trained members who can fill in as needed. A fully cross-trained system seems to work best for those agencies that serve a small area and have strong mutual aid agreements with nearby agencies.