Tuesday, July 19, 2011

** Ohio tactical medics to carry guns?

** Former Illinois paramedic killed in motorcycle crash

UNITED STATES NEWS

** Tactical medics in Ohio could soon gain the right to carry guns when working with SWAT teams. That is the word from the Med City News (Brandon Glen/July 15) which said that is the aim of proposed legislation put forward by Rep. Courtney Combs. According to the newspaper, practitioners would be provided with weapons for personal safety while working with police. An option for providers rather than a mandate, the ability to bear arms on the job would also see such EMTs immune from civil suits launched in connection with gun use. Boonshoft School of Medicine Division of Tactical Medicine Dr. James Brown said he believed the statute was a good one for high risk situations. Hearings on the potential bill will be scheduled in September when legislators return from summer break.

** Funeral services were held yesterday for a former Illinois paramedic killed in an off-duty motorcycle crash last week. The Chicago Sun Times (July 17) said Brandon Reimenschneider, 31, died Thursday morning. According to the news site, Reimenschneider worked for the Oswego Fire Department as a paramedic/firefighter for 2 years. Since 2007, he has been a deputy with the Kendall County Sheriff’s Department. He also volunteered with the Bristol-Kendall and Sandwich Fire departments. Police continue to investigate.