(I didn't read all the posts.)

One's initial reaction here may be a feeling of repulsion. However, here's another way to think about it. The rescuers suffered injuries, which may be quantified in monetary damages. Who should be responsible for paying those monetary damages? Should the rescuers have to pay $25,000 for having the privilege of saving this person's life? Should the taxpayers (community at large) be required to foot the bill? Or should the person rescued foot the bill?

The only reasonable options here are either (1) the taxpayers or (2) the person rescued. Because I'm a fan of personal accountability, I say the person rescued should be responsible for paying damages in most cases.