What must you have on your person at all times while on duty in Santa Clara?

Having the Santa Clara County EMS system ID badge on your person at all times while on duty is crucial for multiple reasons. This badge serves as an official form of identification that designates you as an authorized member of the emergency medical services team. It ensures that you have the authority to operate within the county's emergency response framework and that you are recognized by other professionals and community members.

The ID badge also plays a vital role in facilitating communication and collaboration with other agencies and personnel during critical situations. It can help avoid confusion or delays during emergencies, where time and clear identification can impact patient care and outcomes. Moreover, maintaining proper identification aligns with protocols and policies designed to ensure safety, accountability, and professionalism within the EMS system.

While the other options—such as a firefighter helmet, a medical degree diploma, and a personal cell phone—may be useful in certain contexts, they do not serve the same vital function of immediate identification and authorization that the EMS system ID badge provides.