<P> First responders must be trained to deal with a wide array of potential medical emergencies . Because of the high level of stress and uncertainty associated with the position, first responders must maintain physical and mental health . Even with such preparation, first responders face unique risks of being the first people to aid those with unknown contagions . For example, in 2003 first responders were among the earliest victims of the previously unknown SARS virus, when they cared for patients affected with the virus . </P> <P> Some jurisdictions have special laws defining and establishing the rights and duties of first responders . </P> <P> The term first responder is defined in U.S. Homeland Security Presidential Directive, HSPD - 8 and reads: </P> <P> The term "first responder" refers to those individuals who in the early stages of an incident are responsible for the protection and preservation of life, property, evidence, and the environment, including emergency response providers as defined in section 2 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. § 101), as well as emergency management, public health, clinical care, public works, and other skilled support personnel (such as equipment operators) that provide immediate support services during prevention, response, and recovery operations . </P>

Where did the term first responders come from