“BPE (Ballistic Protective Equipment) is essential for the safety of first responders, such as fire/rescue and EMS personnel, who may be called upon to support LE teams during an active shooter incident, and enter an unsecured active shooter area (warm or hot zone). Fire/rescue and EMS personnel who are not members of a tactical LE response team have traditionally not entered an active shooter area until the “all clear sign” is given by the Incident Commander (IC). However, expert analysis of recent AS/MCI incidents has revealed the value of having medical and rescue personnel who are properly trained and equipped to enter the warm zone to maximize victim survival. FEMA therefore encourages first responder agencies to develop this capability.”