1.1 This practice sets forth a standard approach for designated personnel in public, private and not-for-profit organizations that provide recreational, cultural, educational and related services to the public to respond in a support role providing assistance, and as needed to the local family of a responder on assignment in an emergency situation.

1.2 The "responder," with regard to family support services, may be a first-responder from a variety of responder disciplines (for example, law enforcement, fire service, emergency medical services, public health) or supplementary personnel and may be paid or volunteer.

1.3 This practice describes the roles, responsibility, and actions necessary for designated personnel to provide family care-related services to assigned responder family members under conditions of service during an emergency.

1.4 This practice outlines the approach and system for interrelating with responders and their designated family members in times of emergencies to alleviate responders' concerns and fears for their family during an emergency assignment.

1.5 This practice does not supersede any current or future official Federal, State, Tribal, or local government policies, laws and protocols that might subsequently be advanced.

1.6 This practice identifies other peripheral professional personnel that could be assigned to assist the designated responder family members during an emergency.

1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.