Susan M. These cross-trained officers generally work for an integrated agency, often referred to as a Department of Public Safety DPS , although this title can also apply to non-integrated umbrella agencies that house separate emergency services. While integrated first responder agencies are not necessarily a new concept, it is estimated that a very small number of jurisdictions have fully integrated functions of law enforcement, fire suppression, and emergency medical services.
This integration or consolidation takes the form of cross-training personnel to perform the multiple functions that are required of a police officer, firefighter, and emergency medical technician EMT or paramedic. Integration may not be the right choice for all agencies, and the decision to consolidate is a significant one.
The structure, benefits, strengths, weaknesses, start-up costs, and related issues are all important considerations for agencies to examine before making such a decision; however, recent empirical research in this area is beginning to emerge to offer guidance to agencies considering consolidation. Police officers are often cross-trained to perform multiple functions, although such cross-training is usually limited to functions directly related to law enforcement, such as K-9, investigations, and school resource officer.
At a fire or medical incident, most police officers perform only security or very basic first aid. Officers are usually not expected to run into a burning building or start an IV. However, a small number of officers, sometimes referred to as public safety officers PSOs do perform such roles and have received the necessary training for these incidents.
In Sunnyvale, California, for example, the roles of police officer and firefighter are combined. While there are several typologies for integration, there are three main ways: full, partial, and nominal.
