First Responders

posted on September 6, 2013
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
rackley2015_fs.jpg

September is National Preparedness Month, and in a recent press release, Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said that the federal government is ready to help, claiming to be part of a “federal family.”

I’m not sure what scares me more: the government wanting to help or the nomenclature of calling the government a family. Though, now that I think about it, many families bicker, fuss and have a few members that act like spoiled children. So yes, I guess the branches of government are a family. I just hope I’m not related.

On a more serious note, Secretary Sebelius was discussing in the release the role of bystanders in a crisis. Not only can people on the street report suspicious activities to prevent attacks or catch suspects, but bystanders are often the true first responders in the event of a terrorist attack because they are already there when it happens. We saw in Boston how people came to the aid of others, using shirts and belts to staunch blood and save lives, not even knowing if there was a third bomb in the area. Many had zero training, but were still willing to try and help people they didn’t even know.

Of course, taking a CPR or first aid class would be beneficial in these types of situations, but the main attribute needed is willingness to help your neighbors. In this month of remembrance, consider whether you would be willing to help in crisis, and if you are, try learning some skills that could be useful. Hopefully, you’ll never need them, but you’ll be prepared.

Latest

Gotw Rra Lar 22 Tactical Carbine Web
Gotw Rra Lar 22 Tactical Carbine Web

Gun Of The Week: Rock River Arms LAR-22 Tactical Carbine

This week, we're on the range with the Rock River Arms LAR-22 Tactical Carbine, a rimfire variant of the AR-15 that's designed for reliability and gives enthusiasts a way to shoot affordably.

The Armed Citizen® July 11, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Japanese Last-Ditch Small Arms Of World War II

The crude assortment of fighting tools used by the Japanese during World War II give clues of an unprepared and unmatched last-ditch fight that ultimately lead to Allied victory.

Federal Ammunition Awards 2025 Tom Knapp Memorial Scholarships

Federal Ammunition recently awarded the 2025 Tom Knapp Memorial Scholarships to two 4-H shooting sports teen ambassadors.

2025 Optic Of The Year: Burris Eliminator 6

Even as new generation after new generation of Burris Eliminator continued to add more advanced technology and functionality, it remained odd-looking—until the launch of this year’s sixth-generation product, which is the first in the line that can mount atop a rifle using standard 34 mm scope rings.

I Have This Old Gun: Star Model B

Of the many Spanish-made firearms to emerge throughout the 19th and 20th century, one of the most recognizable is the Star Model B, largely due to its similarity to the Colt Model 1911.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.