The landscape of emergency response in Duluth is evolving, as the Duluth Police Department's Tactical Response Team is now incorporating ten Duluth firefighters into its ranks. These firefighters will serve as Tactical Emergency Medical Support (TEMS) Operators, a fusion aimed at enhancing the medical response during high-risk operations. 

"Having the support of TEMS operators during high-risk calls is best practice for both DFD and DPD in keeping our community safe if a tragic incident occurs within Duluth," Duluth Police Chief Mike Ceynowa said, as per the City of Duluth, Minnesota. The firefighters have undergone specialized training to prepare them for the specific challenges they may face in conjunction with the Tactical Response Team.

These TEMS operators aren't just bystanders waiting for an emergency to unfold; they are the initial medical responders in active and potentially volatile scenarios. Their training has been designed to deal with unique injuries that can result from such circumstances, ensuring that they can provide expert medical care even in the heat of a tactical operation.

"DPD and DFD have been training for years together on hostile event response. By dedicating DFD personnel to specialized training, and integration with DPD’s Tactical Response Team, we are taking the next necessary steps in providing the best possible response for the community, our firefighters, and our police department partners," said Duluth Fire Chief Shawn Krizaj, as stated by the City of Duluth, Minnesota. Their joint exercises are intended to cement a trust that is pivotal to acting as a single, cohesive unit in times of crisis.