The Act proclaims that “First responders are those men and women who, in early stages of an emergency, are responsible for the protection and preservation of life, property, evidence and the environment. The include police officers, firefighters, military personnel, paramedics, medical evacuation pilots, dispatchers, nurses, doctors, emergency medical technicians and emergency managers. 
     First responders are volunteers and professionals who have dedicated their lives to public service. Their life-saving skills often make the difference between life and death. Their public service deserves to recognized and honored. “