Emergency services and rescue agencies provide public safety and health services through various emergency-related activities. Some exist solely to deal with certain types of emergencies, but many deal with ad hoc emergencies as part of their regular duties. Several of these agencies have developed community awareness and prevention programs to help the public avoid, detect, and report emergencies.
There are three primary emergency services that can be summoned directly by the public:
law enforcement, criminal investigation, and maintenance of public order. There are a variety of law enforcement agencies that conduct law enforcement. In the United States, there are State Police and Highway Patrol agencies, Municipal and County police and Sheriff agencies as well as other law enforcement agencies.
fire suppression, technical rescue, and hazardous materials mitigation. These services are provided to those who need help during any type of emergency. Some Fire and Rescue services agencies also provide emergency medical services.
Emergency medical services and technical rescue. Emergency Medical Services agencies and Technical Rescue services agencies are responsible for immediate response to medical emergency calls as well as specialized rescue services calls. Many emergency medical services agencies in the United States operate technical rescue services vehicles and equipment and work to help those who need rescue assistance.