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3.1 - Radio and dispatch

  • Use the designated EMS channel (currently channel 5) unless directed otherwise by dispatch or command.
  • Keep transmissions clear and reasonably brief; communicate your unit, location, response, and requests for support.
  • For urgent traffic, announce “Break, Break, Break” or “10-3, Emergency Traffic” followed by the important information.
  • Do not interrupt an active emergency transmission with routine chatter. Life-safety emergencies take precedence over rank.
Channel assignments and radio mechanics may change; use the current DPS communications directory if frequencies are updated.

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3.2 - Arriving at calls

  1. Check that you can approach safely and identify potential hazards.
  2. Establish contact with the patient and determine immediate needs.
  3. Ask for additional EMS, fire, or police support when conditions warrant.
  4. Coordinate transport or a handoff and leave the scene ready for the next unit.
Do not enter active gunfire, violent scenes, or other unsecured hazards simply because a dispatch call is waiting. Stage at a safe location and request law enforcement clearance when needed. Do not depend on an exact two-block distance or a single radio code to determine safety.

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3.3 - Who runs the medical scene?

For routine calls, the first appropriately qualified medic may coordinate patient care, with help from incoming staff. Experienced medics should support**-not automatically take over-**unless the original lead requests assistance or patient safety requires it. For large incidents, designate a clear medical lead to organize triage, resources, treatment areas, and transports. Police manage law-enforcement threats; EMS makes medical decisions within its scope.

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3.4 - Multiple patients

A mass-casualty incident (MCI) occurs when patient needs exceed the resources currently available. Request assistance early and use simple triage language: Treat based on severity and available resources-not whether the patient is a police officer, suspect, or civilian. Consider urgent threats and responder safety when allocating crews.

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3.5 - Transport and lights

  • Routine: Stable patient, no urgent deterioration expected; follow normal road rules.
  • Emergency: Serious condition requiring prompt hospital care; lights and sirens may be used with due regard for public safety, including slowing and clearing intersections.
The transport destination should fit the roleplay, medical needs, and available facilities. Do not impose a mandatory destination for every patient when a different facility or scene treatment makes sense.