Hi Paul,
Good comments. I was a controller for 10 yrs USAF and 25 FAA. The atc controller handbook faa order 7110.65 specifically says the pilot, controller, officials responsible for the flight may declare an emergency. it doesnt need to be told to the pilot that ive already rang the crash phone in the twr cab, called 911, etc. the pilot he/she is busy enough and doesnt need any added stress. its better to roll the first responders and they are ready at a moments notice. better safe than sorry. some pilots where landing and keyed up and asked who all the trucks and lights are for. simply told ‘you!’.
airports have the twr and local fire and arpt mgmt do semi annual get togethers , mou’s , mock exercises. everyones pitching in to help, the way it should be.