"The problem, to some degree has been the fault of the public themselves and the litigious nature of society. If, I as an EMS/Rescue provider turn the care of a patient (could be as simple as “here hold direct pressure on that wound” or “could you help me carry the patient down the stairs”) to a non-trained citizen, I leave the Fire Department, Line Officers, myself and family open to major legal and possibly criminal liability not only from the patient, but from the person (who may have volunteered to help) I directed to perform some action."

Well, if Good Samaritan laws don't already shield you, then perhaps it's time to mount a push to get them changed. I'm surprised though; on 09-11-01 there must have been thousands of private citizens helping out. Why were there not thousands of lawsuits? I know the settlement covered the airlines, but what about the citizenry? Could not the threat of litigation be a bit overblown? Maybe it's just another excuse for the powers-that-be to keep citizens uninvolved.

"If you want to see a change in attitude, join up and become an instrument of change."

Sorry, that's just not possible for many of us, at least right now. I chose a different career long ago, and I'm not going to be able to become an EMT or a fireman at this stage of my life. And the time available to me for volunteering is going to be negligable--at least for the next little while. I must therefore remain an amateur. I just want to make sure I can contribute if needed. I do hope to take first aid refresher sometime soon.

Please don't take my comments regarding "the authorites" or "the powers-that-be" to apply to the rank and file EMT's, LEO's, or fireman. While the "us vs. them" attitude has trickled down to some extent, it certaintly does not apply to all.

Regards, Vince