Please respect the right of EMS personnel to defend themselves, including having proper tools for the purpose (i.e., weapons).  They are often called into dangerous situations involving criminals or wild animals, often before armed authorities (police/sheriff or animal control) have time to arrive, let alone get the scene under control.  Of all people, those who thus endanger themselves in order to save others' lives, should not be deprived of their ability to defend themselves against present threats.