Violence Against EMS Responders: Is Self-Defense Training a Viable Strategy?

Historically, EMS has not been subjected to the levels of violence perpetrated on other first responders such as law enforcement officers. But that’s changing. Attacks and assaults against EMS providers are climbing to alarming levels. What can be done to mitigate the risk? Verbal de-escalation doesn't always work. Is it time to start considering self-defense as a viable strategy?

Mathew Giachetti is president of LifeForce USA, a comprehensive training academy that provides a full range of EMS skills instruction and certification, including self-defense training for first responders. Host Mike McCabe talks with Giachetti about today’s dangerous culture and the controversial subject of self-defense training for EMS personnel.