Firefighters in Scotland could be given an expanded emergency medical role, responding to some life-threatening injuries and cardiac arrests alongside ambulance crews. The proposal aims to speed up treatment, particularly in rural areas where fire crews may be closer, while helping relieve pressure on Scotland’s ambulance service.

Firefighters could receive training in controlling bleeding, stabilising casualties, giving oxygen and using defibrillators. They would provide immediate care until an ambulance arrived, but would not replace paramedics, administer intravenous medicines or transport patients to hospital; discussions are continuing over training, equipment, funding and pay.