Protecting Responders

Bill would allow firefighters, EMTs to carry handguns

We all know that police officers face danger every day. They never know exactly what a traffic stop or a call for assistance will entail. It may be routine. But it may put the officer in a life-or-death situation. They just never know.

So they are armed. It’s vital to their safety and the safety of the community they serve and protect.

But what about other first responders? Firefighters, for example, or emergency medical technicians, widely known as EMTs?

They are often first on the scene at a tragedy. And though usually they make a welcome sight for those whose health or property may be at risk, they can also face unforeseen danger.

The Texas Legislature may decide to do something about it.

House Bill 435 would allow firefighters and EMTs, both full-time and volunteer, to carry firearms on duty, provided they have the required permit.

Currently each jurisdiction in the state makes its own policy.

The bill’s sponsor, state Rep. Dan Flynn, R-Van, says first responder should be able to protect themselves no matter where in Texas they serve.

The path from bill to law won’t be a cakewalk. Even some firefighters and EMTs have expressed concern over the bill.

Chris Barron, executive director of the State Firefighters’ and Fire Marshals’ Association of Texas, told KXAN-TV in Austin that first responders are not trained police officers and that “I don’t think there is enough substantial evidence to prove that firefighters should be carrying.”

We respect that. We also respect the right of first responders to decide for themselves whether they need a weapon on duty. These are men and women we trust with our lives. We trust their judgment.

The proposal doesn’t require them to be armed. It simply gives them the choice.

We can support that.