What are less-lethal weapons and why are they important for first responders?

Less-lethal weapons are devices designed to subdue or control individuals without causing fatal injuries. For first responders, these tools (like TASER devices from AXON or the BolaWrap from WRAP) provide a crucial middle-ground option when they need to protect themselves without using deadly force. As emergency personnel increasingly face dangerous situations, these technologies help them maintain safety while minimizing harm.

What is "ShotSpotter" technology and how does it help emergency personnel?

ShotSpotter is an acoustic surveillance system that can detect, locate, and alert authorities to gunfire in real-time. Using sensors placed throughout an area, it triangulates the exact location of gunshots and immediately notifies emergency responders. For firefighters, paramedics, and police responding to emergencies, this technology provides critical situational awareness about potential active shooter threats, helping teams avoid dangerous areas or respond appropriately to protect themselves and others.

Why would unmanned aerial systems (drones) be useful for first responder safety?

Drones provide emergency personnel with aerial surveillance without putting anyone in harm's way. Before entering a potentially dangerous situation (like the Idaho ambush mentioned), first responders can deploy drones to scout the area, identify threats, and create a real-time map of the scene. This "eyes in the sky" capability helps teams make more informed decisions about how to approach emergencies safely, potentially avoiding ambushes or other hazards that wouldn't be visible from ground level.

What is body armor and what types do first responders use?

Body armor refers to protective clothing designed to absorb or deflect physical attacks, particularly ballistic impacts from firearms. For first responders, modern body armor typically includes bulletproof vests with various protection levels. Companies like CDRE manufacture specialized first responder armor that balances protection with mobility and comfort, as emergency personnel need to move quickly and work in various positions. As threats against emergency workers increase, many departments are upgrading from basic protection to more advanced armor that can stop higher-caliber ammunition.

15 handpicked stocks

First Responder Safety

Invest in companies developing critical safety equipment for emergency personnel. These carefully selected stocks represent businesses working to protect those who protect us, with solutions ranging from body armor to surveillance technology.

Han Tan | Market Analyst

Updated 2 days ago | Published at juin 30