Rachel Engel
Verified
As seen in:
EMS1,
FireRescue1,
Medium,
HuffPost,
Wiley Online Library,
NewsBreak,
Police1,
Correction1,
Lexipol,
Fire Chief,
Derby Informer
Mom. Military Spouse. Food lover. Brownies.
Is this you? As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.
Claim your profile
Articles by Rachel Engel
Inside Charlotte Fire Department’s immersive EMS training program
Many EMS education programs do an excellent job teaching clinical skills but struggle to prepare students for the realities of the field, as patients typically don’t collapse in quiet classrooms. They become critically ill in crowded restaurants, noisy stadiums, dark hallways and cramped bathrooms, often surrounded by distractions that make assessment and communication far more difficult.
The EMS Pulse: When it comes to rural EMS, ‘it’s you, your partner and Jesus’
The realities of rural EMS are difficult to capture in a single metric. After EMS1 shared Brian Tannehill’s recent EMS1 article, “Low volume, high stakes: The reality of rural EMS,” providers on social media added their own perspective. They wrote about hour-long transports, grounded helicopters, limited staffing and caring for patients they know personally. Their responses offer a firsthand look at how distance and isolation shape prehospital care.
‘More than an actor’: Fire/EMS leaders, members on the death of Randolph Mantooth
Randolph Mantooth, best known for portraying Paramedic Johnny Gage on the groundbreaking television series ‘Emergency!’, died on July 10. As news of his passing spread, first responders across the country shared stories of how Mantooth and the show inspired them to pursue careers in EMS and the fire service, offering a powerful reminder of the lasting impact one television role had on generations of public safety professionals.
5 things to know about Randolph Mantooth, the ‘Emergency!’ star who inspired generations of medics
Editor’s note: Randolph Mantooth, who portrayed firefighter-paramedic Johnny Gage on “Emergency!” and remained a longtime advocate for EMS, died July 9, 2026, at age 80. This article, originally published in 2022, looks back at his career, his connection to the EMS community and the lasting influence of the character who inspired generations of EMTs and paramedics. August 3, 1974. Kevin Tighe and Randolph Mantooth of NBC’s “Emergency!” (illus. by Bob Peak).
Readers respond: ‘If I could fix one fire service issue overnight …’
Regardless of the depth of your commitment to the fire service and your career, you are likely to have a few ideas on how the profession could improve. We asked FireRescue1 readers to name the one issue they would fix overnight if it was possible In more than 500 responses, readers touched on everything from staffing levels and pension to station politics and members’ egos, and much more. Have something to add? Share your thoughts in the comment field below.
The EMS Pulse: Medics remain divided on the McClain ruling
The Colorado Court of Appeals’ decision to reverse the convictions of two former Aurora Fire Rescue paramedics in the death of Elijah McClain has reignited debate across the EMS profession. While the ruling addressed the legal questions surrounding the criminal case, many EMS professionals say it does not change the broader lessons raised by McClain’s death.
The EMS Pulse: Top career advice from 400+ EMS professionals
We asked the EMS1 audience, “What advice would you give to someone just starting out?” In more than 400 responses, EMS1 readers covered everything from lifting techniques to financial planning, wellness and lifestyle balance. Responses repeatedly emphasized protecting physical and mental health, developing clinical expertise and preparing for life beyond the ambulance. Check out the responses below. Have something to share? Email editor@ems1.com with your career advice.
You’ve heard of Fireman Sam. Now, meet Paramedic Chris.
Like many EMS careers, Tim Parson’s began after he personally witnessed the magic of the work. In 2015, his infant son suffered a neonatal seizure at home and was resuscitated by paramedics on the kitchen table. Though his son made a full recovery, the experience changed the way he saw emergency responders — and ultimately changed the direction of his life. That same year, he joined the National Health Service as a volunteer ambulance chaplain.
7 must-do steps for hurricane disaster preparation
Hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30, with a peak from mid-August through late October. Are you prepared? As hurricane season commences, it’s crucial to prioritize hurricane preparedness to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property. Effective hurricane preparation involves more than just stocking up on supplies; it requires a comprehensive plan that addresses safety before, during, and after the storm.
15 minutes of fame: Why is Paramedic Barbie so hard to find?
In 2021, Barbie earned her paramedic license and hit the store shelves amid high visibility and increased appreciation for frontline workers when the COVID-19 pandemic was at its height. When the Barbie movie (Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling) took over pop culture in 2023, I did a deep dive on Barbie’s public safety careers and her different uniforms through the decades. At that time, Paramedic Barbie was still available for purchase at all major retailers. Fast forward to March 2026.
Operationalizing camaraderie: Inside Phoenix’s approach to member support
The Phoenix Fire Department used to have a slogan on the back of all apparatus: “Our family helping yours.” They meant it, too. When PFD Assistant Chief Jeff Schripsema discovered a massive malignant tumor on his shoulder that required surgery, crews immediately jumped into action to support their fellow member and his family: “When our members are in need of help, we rise to a level that is almost overwhelming,” Schripsema explained.
‘We have to right the ship’: FDNY commissioner doubles down on EMS pay parity
When Lillian Bonsignore was announced as newly elected New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s choice for FDNY commissioner, the news elicited some intense emotions. Despite a 30-year EMS career, most recently as the department’s EMS Chief of Operations, during which Bonsignore oversaw the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, opponents of her appointment lodged their complaints.
‘We have to right the ship’: FDNY commissioner doubles down on EMS pay parity
When Lillian Bonsignore was announced as newly elected New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s choice for FDNY commissioner, the news elicited some intense emotions. Despite a 30-year EMS career, most recently as the department’s EMS Chief of Operations, during which Bonsignore oversaw the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, opponents of her appointment lodged their complaints.
6 ways to protect your relationships as a first responder
Editor’s Note: Join Lexipol, EMS1 and our partners for First Responders Wellness Week from March 23-27, 2026. Each day we’ll focus on a different topic, providing shift briefing videos, webinars, articles, podcasts and more, all within the overarching theme of being “Total Wellness. True Readiness.” Register now. First responders face immense physical and emotional demands, often witnessing humanity at its most vulnerable. Having a strong support system isn’t just helpful; it’s essential.
Team USA: Olympians with first responder ties
Reaching the Olympic Games requires discipline, resilience and the ability to perform under pressure. Those same qualities are central to the work of first responders. For some athletes, public service came before elite competition. For others, it became part of life after the Games. In each case, the skill overlap between sport and service is hard to miss. | MORE: Remember that time firefighting was featured at the Olympics? 2026 Winter Olympics The 2026 Winter Games kicked off on Feb.
How Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell's career was shaped by the fire family
Editor’s Note: Former U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell sat down with FireRescue1 to share how a colleague’s kindness in her early career allowed her to fully commit to the job, and why the fire family is an important part of fire service culture. Read the full video transcript below. Can you recall a time when the brother/sisterhood showed up for you in your time of need?
How to celebrate the holidays as a first responder family
If you’ve been working in the emergency services for any length of time, you’re aware of the unpredictability it brings. Your schedule fluctuates and, while other career professionals receive holidays off, you just have to hope it’s your turn to have those days free this year. However, this is not an easy concept to explain to kids, who often assume that the holidays occur on a specific day every year that is non-negotiable.
Why 'therapy dog' is the wrong term for critical incident response K-9s
In public safety, language matters. While the term “therapy dog” is common in other fields, it can create confusion in law enforcement, fire and EMS. Janeen Baggette, founder of K9’s for Freedom & Independence and a Texas law enforcement officer, notes that the label is often misunderstood, suggesting a purpose that doesn’t align with the needs of first responders. Beyond perception, the terminology also has operational consequences.
11 meaningful ways to say thank you to police officers, firefighters and EMTs
First responders are the people who show up when everything falls apart — the ones running toward smoke, chaos and danger while the rest of us move away. They don’t do it for recognition, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need it. Gratitude can’t replace funding or proper staffing, but it can go a long way toward letting responders know their work matters. Below are 11 actionable ways to express gratitude and back first responders in your area.
11 best ways to thank and support first responders in your community
First responders are the people who show up when everything falls apart — the ones running toward smoke, chaos and danger while the rest of us move away. They don’t do it for recognition, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need it. Gratitude can’t replace funding or proper staffing, but it can go a long way toward letting responders know their work matters. Below are 11 actionable ways to express gratitude and back first responders in your area.
11 best ways to thank and support first responders in your community
First responders are the people who show up when everything falls apart — the ones running toward smoke, chaos and danger while the rest of us move away. They don’t do it for recognition, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need it. Gratitude can’t replace funding or proper staffing, but it can go a long way toward letting responders know their work matters. Below are 11 actionable ways to express gratitude and back first responders in your area.
Fire Prevention Week: 10 ways AI can support your community outreach
Fire Prevention Week, led by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), is one of the busiest times of the year for fire department public information officers and community risk reduction teams. From school visits to media outreach, the workload can stack up fast. The good news: AI can help lighten the load by handling some of the more time-consuming parts of work — writing, designing and planning — so your crews can focus more on actual community engagement.
Why ‘therapy dog’ is the wrong term for critical incident response K9s
In public safety, language matters. While the term “therapy dog” is common in other fields, it can create confusion in EMS, fire and law enforcement. Janeen Baggette, founder of K9’s for Freedom & Independence and a Texas law enforcement officer, notes that the label is often misunderstood, suggesting a purpose that doesn’t align with the needs of first responders. Beyond perception, the terminology also has operational consequences.
6 steps to adding a therapy dog to your organization Original
There’s a reason they say that “dogs are a (hu)man’s best friend.” Dogs are natural human companions. In a worldwide study of four million people, dog ownership was found to reduce the risk of dying early by 24%. Interaction with dogs was also found to lower the stress hormone cortisol. Higher cortisol levels are high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, diabetes, immune suppression and more.
‘We were told we were fixing to die’: EMS inside Hurricane Katrina
On the morning of Sept. 11, 2001, 18-year-old Laura Russell was glued to her television as she watched first responders converge on the devastation in New York, Pennsylvania and Washington D.C. following one of the worst terrorist attacks on U.S. soil.
‘We were told we were fixing to die’: EMS inside Hurricane Katrina
On the morning of Sept. 11, 2001, 18-year-old Laura Russell was glued to her television as she watched first responders converge on the devastation in New York, Pennsylvania and Washington D.C. following one of the worst terrorist attacks on U.S. soil.
Heat exhaustion vs. exertional hyponatremia: Spot the signs
Scenario: During a local half-marathon, officers respond to a 29-year-old female runner who collapsed near the finish line. Bystanders report she was running for more than four hours and had been drinking water at every aid station. On scene, she’s confused, vomiting, and her skin is cool and clammy. Friends add she didn’t eat or take electrolytes. At first glance, this might look like heat exhaustion.
Shift-ready water bottles designed for first responders’ toughest days
Staying hydrated is a challenge for first responders. Long shifts, heavy gear, high-stress calls, and unpredictable schedules make it easy to forget water until fatigue sets in. The right water bottle can make hydration simple and reliable, whether you’re working a 24-hour shift, training, or relaxing off duty. Below are the top categories of water bottles to meet different needs.
Heat exhaustion vs. exertional hyponatremia: Spot the signs
Scenario: An EMS crew is dispatched to a local half-marathon for a 29-year-old female runner who collapsed near the finish line. Bystanders report she was running for more than 4 hours and had been drinking water at every aid station. On scene, the patient is confused and vomiting. Her skin is cool and clammy, no signs of trauma. Friends say she didn’t eat or take electrolyte supplements during the race.
Shift-ready water bottles designed for first responders’ toughest days
Staying hydrated is a challenge for first responders. Long shifts, heavy gear, high-stress calls, and unpredictable schedules make it easy to forget water until fatigue sets in. The right water bottle can make hydration simple and reliable, whether you’re working a 24-hour shift, training, or relaxing off duty. Below are the top categories of water bottles to meet different needs.
Lights, camera, Cameo: Fire and EMS stars you can book for a shift pep talk
Ever wanted a celebrity to back you up on a big day? Now they can. If you haven’t checked out Cameo, here’s the rundown: It’s a video app where you can pay for personalized shout-outs from celebrities, athletes, influencers — or that guy who played your favorite firefighter/paramedic on TV. Think birthday roasts, retirement kudos, wedding hype, even a surprise morale boost for your shift crew. Most videos hit your inbox within 24 hours, ready to make someone’s day. Even better?
Heat exhaustion vs. exertional hyponatremia: Spot the signs
Scenario: An EMS crew is dispatched to a local half-marathon for a 29-year-old female runner who collapsed near the finish line. Bystanders report she was running for more than 4 hours and had been drinking water at every aid station. On scene, the patient is confused and vomiting. Her skin is cool and clammy, no signs of trauma. Friends say she didn’t eat or take electrolyte supplements during the race.
Heroic rescue stories emerge from deadly Texas floodwaters
As recovery operations continue near the Guadalupe River in Texas following catastrophic flooding over the July 4th weekend that killed more than 80 people, including dozens of children, reports of heroic rescue missions to save stranded residents are emerging. 1. El Paso (Texas) FD’s Water Rescue Team saves flood victims from tree Members of the El Paso (Texas) Fire Department’s Water Rescue Team were deployed to the region as part of Texas Task Force 1.
Hot-weather training guide: 10 ways firefighters can stay fit and safe in the summer heat
When the weather warms up, most people take their workouts outside — at least until the heat becomes too unbearable. Once the temperature hits the triple-digits, it can take all the joy and satisfaction out of getting a run in, and discourage you from wanting to leave the house and brave the heat. Yes, going for a jog in mild March or crisp September may be more enjoyable, but that doesn’t mean you have to completely write off those summer months.
How to create an Amazon Wish List for your police department
Editor’s note:Amazon Prime Day is back, giving first responders a 4-day window to upgrade mission-critical gear and station essentials at deep discounts this July 8-11. Prime Day reliably cuts prices on the items public safety professionals buy most: duty gear, gadgets, fitness equipment and more. Make the most of the sale by making sure you’re Prime eligible and using the “Deals” tab to surface time-sensitive bargains.
10 signs of a bad EMS supervisor
Have you ever had a supervisor who made you question their leadership skills? What are we asking; of course you have! We’ve all been there. Some managers have mastered the art of motivating their teams, while others seem to have taken a course specifically in how not to manage. EMS crews rely on good leadership; not just for day-to-day operations, but for fostering a supportive and effective environment. Bad supervisors can sap morale, hinder teamwork and make a tough job even harder.
Stroke vs. hypoglycemia: How to spot the signs before it’s too late
Scenario: A 68-year-old man is found slumped over in a diner booth. He’s confused, slurring his words and can’t move his right arm. A bystander mentions he has diabetes. Is this a stroke? Or a diabetic emergency? Both hypoglycemia and stroke can cause sudden neurological symptoms like confusion, weakness or slurred speech. However, their underlying causes and treatments differ drastically. Misdiagnosing one as the other can delay critical intervention or even worsen outcomes.
A $500 fee and a 60% drop: How one department tackled its lift assist crisis
In 2014, the Decatur (Illinois) Fire Department responded to 430 calls for lift assist services. By 2023, the number had risen to more than 1,000. Even with the large Baby Boomer generation moving into their twilight years, city officials did not believe the increase in lift assist requests was related to the aging population.
A $500 fee and a 60% drop: How one department tackled its lift assist crisis
In 2014, the Decatur (Illinois) Fire Department responded to 430 calls for lift assist services. By 2023, the number had risen to more than 1,000. Even with the large Baby Boomer generation moving into their twilight years, city officials did not believe the increase in lift assist requests was related to the aging population.
The science of pets as mental health therapy: A guide for first responders
Editor’s Note: Are you interested in implementing a therapy dog program in your organization? Check out this Lexipol on-demand webinar, “Getting Started with First Responder Therapy Dogs,” to learn how these initiatives benefit personnel, the different program models available and how to build executive-level support. Watch the on-demand webinar now. First responders — firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, police officers and dispatchers — are often exposed to intense, emotionally draining situations.
The science of pets as mental health therapy: A guide for first responders
Editor’s Note: Are you interested in implementing a therapy dog program in your organization? Check out this Lexipol on-demand webinar, “Getting Started with First Responder Therapy Dogs,” to learn how these initiatives benefit personnel, the different program models available and how to build executive-level support. Watch the on-demand webinar now. First responders — firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, police officers and dispatchers — are often exposed to intense, emotionally draining situations.
Measles: What it is, how it spreads and what to do if you suspect it
Measles, a highly contagious viral disease, is on the rise again in the United States. While measles was declared to be eradicated from the U.S. in 2000, outbreaks continue to occur, primarily due to declining immunization coverage in some communities. In this article, you’ll find an overview of the disease, symptoms and prevention strategies.
COVID-19 timeline: From the first U.S. case to the end of the pandemic declaration
The COVID-19 pandemic was an unprecedented crisis that reshaped public safety and emergency response worldwide. First responders, healthcare workers and emergency planners faced challenges never before encountered on such a global scale. From the initial outbreak and lockdowns, to the development of vaccines and evolving public health policies, the pandemic tested the resilience and the dedication of those on the front lines.
Sweat and savings: Which gyms offer first responder discounts?
Physical fitness is a necessity for all, but especially first responders, as the nature of the work demands a body familiar with motion and exertion. But which fitness club should you join? The cost of a gym membership in 2025 can range from generally affordable to astronomical, depending on the club, amenities, facilities, perks and benefits package you choose.
BEACON: Redefining emergency alerts for a digital world
For decades, emergency alerts relied on traditional television and radio broadcasts to reach the public. As younger generations abandon traditional media sources, however, emergency officials have to get creative in how they message emergency communications. Futuri’s BEACON, the Broadcast Emergency Alerts and Communications Operations Network, is harnessing artificial intelligence to transform how emergency managers analyze and disseminate life-saving information.
Quick Take: Tackling key questions about NERIS rollout and onboarding
In a live webinar hosted by UL’s Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI) in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) this week, officials shared the progress of the rollout of the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) that began in November 2024. NERIS is replacing the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS), which is due to sunset at the end of 2025.
‘Don’t let USFA go back in the shadows’: Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell’s message to fire service leaders
On Jan. 20, 2025, Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell resigned as U.S. fire administrator, vacating the post she’d held since 2021. The departure was a difficult one, naturally; however, the fire administrator is appointed by the president and changes with each new administration. I spoke with Dr. Moore-Merrell about her time in office, what she regards as her biggest accomplishments during her tenure, and her perspective on the future of the fire service, particularly the role of the USFA and FEMA.
Hazmat suits: From rudimentary rags to cutting-edge protection
The concept of protecting oneself from hazardous materials dates back centuries, though the earliest forms of protective gear were rudimentary.
Research roundup: What did we learn in 2024?
When seconds count and lives hang in the balance, every decision matters. From airway management breakthroughs to the evolving use of naloxone, the landscape of prehospital care is constantly shifting. But are you equipped with the latest insights to provide the best outcomes for your patients? Dive into cutting-edge discussions on airway safety, cardiac response innovations, and the pros and cons of emerging pain management techniques.
8 steps to effective budgeting for first responders
Managing personal finances can be challenging for anyone, but for first responders, the unique demands of the job can add an extra layer of complexity. Long hours, unpredictable schedules, unpredictable overtime and the mental toll of serving the community often leave little time for focusing on financial well-being. Yet, with careful planning and the right tools, first responders can take control of their money and set themselves up for a stable financial future.
Show More
loading
Actions
Get in touch with Rachel
Contact Rachel, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack