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First Responder

By , About.com Guide

Updated October 06, 2012

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Definition: There are two meanings for first responder:
  1. The first person to arrive at an emergency scene. Often, first responder is used as a general term for all emergency service personnel who are expected to respond to medical emergencies or large-scale disasters.

  2. A public safety official -- such as a police officer or firefighter -- certified to provide basic life support skills similar to an EMT. When referring to a certified First Responder, the term is capitalized.

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