Scene safety in the face of automatic weapons fire: a new dilemma for EMS?
OBJECTIVE
To describe the EMS response to a large-scale shooting incident involving military-style weapons.


METHODS
Descriptive review.


RESULTS
Twenty ambulances, nine engine companies, and three helicopters responded to this incident. Ten police officers and nine civilians were wounded, all of whom required transport to nearby hospitals. Two gunmen were shot and pronounced dead at the scene. No EMS personnel were injured.


CONCLUSIONS
Incidents involving military-style weapons pose a unique challenge for prehospital care providers who must care for injured civilians and law enforcement personnel while maintaining their own safety. Use of the Incident Command System, establishment of a liaison with law enforcement, and the provision of protective gear for EMS personnel are vital to effectively and safely manage these types of incidents.
Los Angeles City Fire Department, CA 90012, USA. eckstein@hsc.usc.edu
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Cowen
D001331:Automation; D004189:Disaster Planning / Q000458:organization & administration*; D004632:Emergency Medical Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D004634:Emergency Medical Technicians; D005389:Firearms; D006708:Homicide / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D015141:Los Angeles; D017146:Models, Organizational; D016272:Occupational Health; D016495:Police / Q000458:organization & administration*; D011481:Protective Clothing; D017751:Safety Management; D014754:Violence / Q000517:prevention & control*