By Sarah Roebuck
FireRescue1
APPLETON, Wis. — A new law in Wisconsin expands firearm access for tactical EMS providers.
Senate Bill 829 was signed into law by Gov. Tony Evers at Appleton Fire Department Station No. 1 on March 26.
The law now allows TEMS medics to carry a firearm in prohibited areas for their protection, WULK reports. This includes areas like fish hatcheries, wildlife reserves, schools and even when they might have to enter private property during emergencies.
Since 2012, the Appleton Police Department has been incorporating a TEMS team into its SWAT unit, WULK reports. This initiative ensures that a TEMS professional is present during high-risk operations, providing on-the-spot medical care in situations where standard emergency medical services might not be allowed to enter.