Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 23/6/2014 (2280 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Next time police go into a high risk situation --- maybe even right this very minute --- specially-trained and outfitted paramedics will be right beside them.

The tactical emergency support team (TEMS) unit has 10 members each decked out in the same 70 pounds of protective equipment that police wear, including helmets, vests, shin guards, and gas masks.

Until now, paramedics have had to hang back at least a half a block away while police dealt with serious situations, often with someone already injured.

Advanced tactical paramedic Dan Aitken told reporters this afternoon that it will be akin to being a combat medic. They’ll be stationed at Portage Avenue, performing normal duties until there’s a crisis call.