When disaster strikes, whether in the form of catastrophic weather events or civil disorder, public safety agencies must be at their best and most efficient. Dealing with high-risk events may involve switching first responders to Alpha/Bravo or EOP shift schedules.

EMS personnel are responding to the convenience and flexibility of training programs completed by computer on their own schedules. Departmental leaders embracing this exciting new type of education have to keep accurate records of these sessions, or else they're undercutting training's value.

October is Crime Prevention Month, with community-focused events and initiatives such as the National Night Out. These gatherings of community members and law enforcement agencies are designed to build trust and a sense of community.

While many police chiefs agree that it is crucial for their officers to meet regularly with residents, the simple truth is that many find their resources stretched too thin.

Carefully managing a field training officer program can help an EMS department safeguard its community. Failure with such an undertaking, however, can harm the reputation of an agency and put lives in danger.

Organizations need to make sure they select only qualified and prepared field training officers; candidates should be compassionate, professional and well-educated in department procedures.