do law enforcement assist the injured?

Question

are law enforement officers required or expected to assist unconscious or injured persons if first arrival on scene? exaple: provide basic first aid and/or CPR.

Answer 1

Yes, first priority is to make the scene safe so no further injury occurs and then assist.

Answer 2

The officers first responsibility is to ensure the scene is safe. For instance to ensure another vehicle does not plough into the scene and cause further injury or death to the injured, other people or themselves.

In the abscence of ambulance or fire crews and providing it was safe to do so, they would then be expected to ensure the patient is breathing. If necessary clear the airway and give CPR. If the patient is outside the vehicle then they should be put in the recovery position. In the case of car accidents it is usually true to say that apart from immediate life saving actions the least that is done the better. People should never be encouraged to get out of a bad wreck unless there is an imminent danger involved. This can cause further injury, paralysis or even death.

Firemen and paramedics are the ones who should make those judgements.

Remember the police officers primary job is to ensure the scene is safe for everyone first. Then assist the patient but return immediately to his safety role as soon as someone else can take over.

Answer 3

Depends on the state, and area ( county and/or city) in that state.

For example in GA all police are trained as part of their POST training ( for the past 10 years or so) have to take basic first responder training.

Now when they arrive at a scene, their first duty is to be sure the scene is safe and secure. next they were to review the medical needs in general of any and all people there.
And attempt to help the most injured person within the limits of thier training.

If the first aid is minor, they don't have to.
for example they may tell the person to hold pressume on a point ( not actually hold it thierself)

Answer 4

Yes, all law officers are required to be certified in CPR/first aid each year. The police arrive to an accident first, then if rescue is needed THEY call rescue, and ambulance doesn't automatically go there.

Answer 5

Depends on the community

Answer 6

Absolutely! To do otherwise would invalidate their oath as public servants.

Answer 7

I would think so considering we, as citizens, are supposed to help and render aid.

Answer 8

Yes. To do otherwise could constitute negligence.