Working as a first responder is often a vocation or a calling more than just a job. People want to serve their communities, protect vulnerable people and save lives. A career working as a firefighter, paramedic or law enforcement professional can help people contribute to society.
However, those careers come with above-average risk. As such, it is arguably more important for those working as first responders to engage in estate planning than it is for those in less dangerous professions.
First responders never know what might happen
The unfortunate reality for first responders is that they often put their lives on the line for their careers. Responding to car crashes during times of inclement weather, rushing into burning buildings and intervening in a crime in progress can all result in professionals dying.
Establishing an estate plan before something tragic happens at work helps ensure that the people who depend on first responders as family members have the guidance and support they need should a tragedy occur. First responders can name guardians to care for their children and can provide clear beneficiary designation to ensure that their loved ones receive support in the event of their death.
Injury risks also require planning
First responders aren’t just at elevated risk of dying on the job. They are also more vulnerable than the average worker to sustaining a major injury. According to a study looking at a decade of injury reports, law enforcement professionals reported an average of 635 injuries per 10,000 full-time workers each year.
That injury rate is almost three times higher than the average workplace injury rate. Firefighters and emergency medical services (EMS) workers are also at elevated risk of workplace injuries and work-related illnesses. Estate planning can include documents that protect injured professionals and their families in emergency scenarios.
Advance medical directives can provide guidance about the healthcare they should receive if they become incapacitated. Powers of attorney can help ensure that there is someone to make medical decisions or handle financial matters. Otherwise, the dependent family members of an incapacitated first responder could be left in a precarious position.
Establishing a comprehensive estate plan can provide first responders and their loved ones with peace of mind. Professionals who plan in advance can feel more confident as they perform dangerous job tasks because they have already acted to protect themselves and their loved ones.