The local first-responder groups for emergency services and so forth have been authorized and directed by Secretary Tom Ridge to assist in all manner.

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"It is the beginning of a homeland defense that is going to last, " said the president, who added that the Federal Emergency Management Agency under Director Joe Allbaugh would oversee the first-responder programs.

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The first responder at the scene is also in constant contact with the paramedic team who are travelling to the emergency.

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