Winnipeg paramedics to get tactical unit

WINNIPEG — Winnipeg’s police tactical unit will soon have emergency medical backup.

A new tactical paramedic unit is in the works to help Winnipeg Police Service officers respond to high-risk calls.

The city would not discuss the new initiative, but an internal memo obtained by Global News describes a rigorous selection process with physical and scenario training that might include psychological testing and phobia testing for heights and claustrophobia.   

Nearly two decades ago, Toronto created the first tactical paramedics unit in Canada, known as TEMS.

Other Canadian cities followed suit, including Edmonton, Ottawa, Regina and Calgary. Winnipeg will be next with a one-year pilot project.

“Winnipeg is one of the last major cities in North America that is getting this, so it’s a thrill,” said Michelle Gawronsky, president of the Manitoba Government and General Employees’ Union.

Currently ambulances wait on the sidelines until an incident is resolved. With TEMS, paramedics are sent to the front line of high-risk calls, such as takedowns and standoffs, to provide emergency medical care to injured victims, bystanders, police and suspects.   

This adds to the safety of victims and increase their chance of survival, proponents say.

“Obviously if there’s better co-ordination of this together with the police and paramedics, it will make people safer,” said St. James-Brooklands Coun. Scott Fielding.

Eight Winnipeg paramedics will become tactical specialists, with two on call every 24 hours and two alternates working regular EMS calls unless called into action by tactical police.

Gawronsky does not expect the changes will slow down regular EMS services.

“I don’t think there’s going to be too much of an impact. We are working on the logistics right now with the Winnipeg Fire Paramedics Service,” said Gawronsky.

An information session for paramedics will be held Friday afternoon to discuss the new unit.

Once the paramedics are selected, training will be set to start in late spring.