
In Tennessee, a first responder is defined as a firefighter, emergency services personnel, or other persons who respond to calls for emergency assistance from a 911 call. This includes EMTs, paramedics, and emergency medical responders. Tennessee law provides immunity to first responders in emergency situations and imposes penalties for assault against first responders, including aggravated assault, which is classified as a felony.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | A first responder is a firefighter, emergency services personnel, or other person who responds to calls for emergency assistance from a 911 call |
| Training | First responders must complete at least six hours of annual in-service training |
| Certification | First responders must be certified in Tennessee and renew their certification every two years |
| Insurance | First responder services must maintain professional liability insurance |
| Response protocol | First responders must only perform official responses as assigned by the coordinating dispatch agency |
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What You'll Learn

First responders include firefighters, emergency services personnel, and EMTs
In Tennessee, first responders are defined as firefighters, emergency services personnel, and other people who respond to emergency calls from 911. This includes EMTs (Emergency Medical Technicians) and paramedics.
EMTs and paramedics are required to undergo specific training and certification in Tennessee. This includes providing at least six hours of annual in-service training to all EMS first responder personnel, with a plan and instructors approved by the medical director. They are also required to maintain professional liability insurance to provide indemnity to emergency care personnel and the organisation.
EMTs and paramedics are authorised to perform certain medical procedures, such as defibrillation on a pulseless, non-breathing patient with an automated mode device, and administering intravenous fluids with appropriate administration devices. They are also allowed to perform other procedures as outlined in Rule 1200-12-01-.04(3).
In terms of certification, first responders must successfully complete written examinations within two years of completing their first responder course. They must also submit an application form and pay the relevant certification and application fees. Certifications are valid for a maximum of two years and can be renewed by completing a basic life support course, including CPR certification.
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First responders are protected by law from aggravated assault
First responders in Tennessee are protected by law from aggravated assault. Tennessee Code § 39-13-116 (2024) defines a "first responder" as a "firefighter, emergency services personnel, or other person who responds to calls for emergency assistance from a 911 call". This law also states that a person commits aggravated assault against a first responder if they knowingly cause serious bodily injury or death to the first responder while they are discharging or attempting to discharge their official duties. Aggravated assault is a felony, and the specific penalties vary depending on the state.
In the state of Tennessee, aggravated assault is classified as a Class C felony, punishable by a mandatory fine of $15,000 and a minimum sentence of 90 days' incarceration, with no possibility of early release. This law helps to protect first responders from violent crimes and ensures that offenders are appropriately penalized.
First responders are considered a protected class in several states, including Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Florida. This means that any assault against a first responder is typically considered a felony-level aggravated assault, rather than a simple assault. For example, in Pennsylvania, simple assault is defined as an attempt to cause or the intentional, knowing, or reckless infliction of bodily injury on another person. If the assault is committed against a first responder, it is elevated to a felony-level charge.
The distinction between simple and aggravated assault becomes less relevant when the victim belongs to a protected class. In these cases, the prosecution only needs to establish bodily injury, and the assault is often graded as a felony of the second degree. Aggravated assault against a protected class member typically requires an intentional action and a deliberate intent to harm that specific type of victim.
The protection of first responders under the law is crucial, as they often work in dangerous and unpredictable situations. By enforcing these laws, states aim to deter assaults against first responders and ensure that offenders are held accountable for their actions.
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Assault against a first responder is a Class C felony
In Tennessee, a first responder is defined as a firefighter, emergency services personnel, or any other person who responds to emergency calls made to 911. This includes EMTs, paramedics, and emergency medical responders.
Tennessee law protects first responders from assault. Assault against a first responder is a serious offence and is considered a Class C felony. This includes knowingly causing bodily injury or knowingly causing offensive physical contact, such as spitting, throwing, or transferring bodily fluids.
Aggravated assault against a first responder is defined as an assault that results in serious bodily injury or death, involves the use of a deadly weapon, or involves strangulation. This is a Class C felony, punishable by a mandatory fine of $15,000 and a minimum sentence of 90 days' incarceration, with no possibility of early release.
It is important to note that these laws are subject to change over time, and it is always advisable to refer to the most current official sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information on Tennessee's legal codes and statutes.
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First responders must complete a training program
In the state of Tennessee, first responders are defined as firefighters, emergency services personnel, or other people who respond to emergency 911 calls. First responders are required to complete a training program to be certified.
The Emergency Medical Responder (First Responder) Training Program outlines several requirements that must be met. First responders must maintain student records, including exams, attendance records, and skills verification for five years. They must also provide documentation of successful course completion, attendance, and verification of skills competency to the Division of Emergency Medical Services.
In addition, the training program must provide adequate classroom and lab spaces for skills practice, as well as ensure the availability of audio-visual instructional aids and supplies. First responders must also successfully complete written examinations within two years of completing the First Responder course and submit an application for certification.
To maintain their certification, first responders must renew their certifications periodically and complete refresher training courses. Late renewal of certification may result in additional requirements, such as a reinstatement fee and completion of a refresher course or written examination.
First responders in Tennessee are expected to maintain a certain standard of care when rendering aid and are granted immunity for their actions while responding to emergency calls.
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First responders must be certified in Tennessee
In Tennessee, a first responder is defined as a firefighter, emergency services personnel, or any other person who responds to emergency calls made to 911. First responders are protected under Tennessee law, and assaulting one is considered a felony.
First responders in Tennessee must be certified. To become certified, an applicant must successfully complete a First Responder course and pass a written exam within two years of completion. They must also submit an application form and pay the associated fees. Certifications are valid for two years.
Renewing a certification requires a current Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation card and proof of completion of a basic life support course, including automatic external defibrillation training. If renewal is sought within 60 days of the expiration of certification, a $25 reinstatement fee is required, along with CPR certification and either the approved written exam or a refresher course. If renewal is sought after 60 days but less than two years from the expiration, the same $25 fee applies, but both the refresher course and the written exam are required.
First responders from out of state who hold a current certification and have completed a US Department of Transportation First Responder Course may apply for certification in Tennessee.
In Tennessee, first responder services must maintain professional liability insurance to provide indemnity to emergency care personnel and the organization. They must also provide at least six hours of annual in-service training to all EMS first responder personnel, and they must maintain student records for five years.
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Frequently asked questions
Under Tennessee law, a first responder is a firefighter, emergency services personnel, or other person who responds to calls for emergency assistance from a 911 call.
First responders provide emergency medical services. They are required to undergo training and certification to perform procedures such as defibrillation and administering intravenous fluids.
Assault against a first responder in Tennessee is considered a felony. The penalty includes a mandatory fine and a minimum sentence of incarceration.
Assault against a first responder includes knowingly causing bodily injury or physical contact that a reasonable person would regard as extremely offensive or provocative.
Yes, there are specific exemptions in Tennessee law for first responders in certain situations, such as when they are responding to emergency calls.













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