[ejb999]

Yes the US does - it varies by state and even by town/city.

Many of the towns near me you need to actually be a paramedic to become a firefighter and vice-versa - can't be one without the other in some areas.

Not sure I necessarily agree with this, but it does happen. I see the benefit, but also think there are a lot of people that would be good firefighters, but may not have the willingness or ability to do the classroom and testing required to be pass a full paramedic course.