EMS Provider CHP

[greg58]

Here is another twist to the EMS/CHP debate.
I once answered a call while I was carrying my handgun, I ended up driving the squad to the hospital.
I became concerned because the driver typically helps unload the patient, and helps get them into the ER, I did not want to violate the law by carrying into a hospital.
I quietly took off my jacket and left my handgun zipped in a pocket, and left it between the seats in the cab of the squad, I pullled the keys and locked the cab.
I did not spend much time in the hospital and returned to make sure my handgun was secure.
Now I know a lot of professional Depts. have specific rules against guns in an ambulance, mine being a small volunteer Dept. does not.
Typically I lock my weapon in a file cabinet at our station when I go on a call, a cabinet that I control the keys to.
My question is if I was at the hospital on an official assignment, could I have legally carried into the ER, or did I do the right thing?
Greg58

[gsd]

Firearms are strictly prohibited in healthcare institutions unless in possession of a LEO. At least that is my interpretation.

[DaveB]

And that should also apply to the vehicle. Especially since the injured conceal carry permit holders are not allowed by law. Otherwise it is once again a show of power. What makes it safe for EMS to carry when it is unsafe for a regular Joe that has a permit? This is nothing but double standards for Americans.

[gsd]

Dave, to the extent of my knowledge it does apply to the rigs. Technically, Greg58 was breaking the law.

By definition, ambulances and hospital owned vehicles are an extension of the healthcare facility.

[Famous556]

FYI the ambulances being referenced are not owned by the hospital.  Technically they are owned by the taxpayers of the fire district.

[bullit]

"By definition, ambulances and hospital owned vehicles are an extension of the healthcare facility"

By definition my home is an extension of the county and the school district as I continue to pay taxes on it, though paid off and no kids EVER in the school system.....and they're going to own it if I don't pay said taxes...okay a little off topic....

[greg58]

Dave, to the extent of my knowledge it does apply to the rigs. Technically, Greg58 was breaking the law.

Would you please show me that part of the State Statute, because I only asked this question to be sure I am staying within the law. Remember I was not giving direct patient care.
Greg58

[greg58]

And that should also apply to the vehicle. Especially since the injured conceal carry permit holders are not allowed by law. Otherwise it is once again a show of power. What makes it safe for EMS to carry when it is unsafe for a regular Joe that has a permit? This is nothing but double standards for Americans.            
                  
                  
                     
                     
                     
                           

How was I showing power when I kept concealed and did not tell anyone I was armed?
Greg58

[bullit]

Greg58....as a NE CHP instructor myself and having reviewed the CHP statutes only (i.e. not any other firearm carrying related statutes), I see NOTHING that forbids you carrying concealed with your CHP on the rig.  Otherwise, would assume a departmental/administrative decision.
And for what it is worth Dave B, it NOT against the CHP statutes/law for a CHP holder to be transported while remaining armed in an ambulance to the hospital. No where does it compel the EMS provider to disarm you.... same as a LEO.....

[gsd]

Thats because most of the time it's department protocol, and for our safety.

[DaveB]

How was I showing power when I kept concealed and did not tell anyone I was armed?
Greg58

That's an easy one.

What is safe and just fine for you to do is a danger to you if I do the same thing. If that isn't an elite attitude, I don't know what is.

[greg58]

Well Dave, your beef should be with the NE legislature who wrote the law that I am trying to follow.
When you say that carrying in the squad is what I do, you are far from right, I did it once, and was uncomfortable doing it, and have never done it since.
Plus I don't have an elite bone in my body, when I am in the squad I try to be as professional, competent, compassionate, and non judgemental as possible, all for no pay, and time away from my family and friends.
The reason I do it is because of the occasional thanks I get from someone genuinely in need.
Greg58

[gsd]

Plus I don't have an elite bone in my body, when I am in the squad I try to be as professional, competent, compassionate, and non judgemental as possible, all for no pay, and time away from my family and friends.
The reason I do it is because of the occasional thanks I get from someone genuinely in need.
Greg58

It's why we all do it brother.

[Nebraska12]

It's why we all do it brother.

Isn't that the truth. We sure aren't going to get rich doing it. But that's the last thing on my mind when I respond to a call. That's not why I got into the profession.