What are the differences?

[amar20007]

I am wondering why FEMA reports say responders and firefighters!! are they different?

[Alexianna]

Well I'm no expert, but I'd say that 'responders' covers any emergency personnel that are responding (medics, police, etc) Where as firefighters obviously only describes them. Does that help?

[fire49]

Homeland Security Presidential Directive (HSPD-8) defines first responders as:
“…Those individuals who in the early stages of an incident are responsible for the protection and preservation of life, property, evidence, and the environment, including…emergency management, public health, clinical care, public works, and other skilled support personnel (such as equipment operators) that provide immediate support services during prevention, response, and recovery operations.”

[amar20007]

Alexianna
fire49
now it is clear, many thanks...