DB 19-19 - Public Recording of Dept Members

Question 1

Persons who are lawfully in public spaces or in locations where they have a right to be (such as their home, business, or the common areas of public facilities and buildings), have a _____ Amendment right to record things in plain sight or hearing, including the right to record Department members performing their duties.

As long as their actions do not interfere with the duties or safety of Dept members.

Answer 1

First Amendment

Question 2

Unless the recording interferes with emergency operations, Department members shall not threaten, intimidate, or otherwise discourage or interfere with the recording of Department member activities. (As long as they are in a public space)

Such prohibited interference includes:

Answer 2

-Ordering a person to stop taking photographs or recording
-Asking for a person’s identification
-Asking a person to provide a reason for taking photographs or recording
-Intentionally blocking or obstructing cameras or recording devices
-Threatening to damage or seize recordings or recording equipment
-Asking for film permits or cite film permit requirements as a basis for disallowing or discouraging recording. (Film permits not required in these instances)
-Citing HIPAA as a basis for disallowing or discouraging recording (HIPPA not applicable to public/press)

Question 3

If patient privacy is an issue, such as when the situation involves ______ or ______, Department members may move the patient to the ambulance and/or cover the patient with a sheet.

Answer 3

nudity or Graphic injuries

Question 4

When public/press recording activity interferes with Department operations:

Answer 4

Department members may advise the recording party that the Department needs a reasonable work area in order to operate, designate a specific work area and/or distance, and ask the recording party to stay outside of the work area when recording.

Question 5

True or False?

If requested, Department members SHOULD provide their names and rank.

Answer 5

True

Question 6

If the recording party persists in trying to annoy or to agitate the situation, Department members should provide the individual with the contact information for the Department’s ________ officer, then return their attention to the performance of their duties.

Answer 6

public information officer