SI79 – Cops & Meds: Emergency Medical Training for Law Enforcement

Included: DVD+ 1 Digital Download
Run Time: 30 minutes

The Program Overview

This training program begins by highlighting numerous real-life incidents—many captured on camera—where law enforcement officers provided critical medical aid before EMS or fire crews arrived. These powerful moments underscore the vital role officers can play in trauma response.

Featured Incidents:

• An Iowa police officer, also trained as an EMT, provided immediate assistance during a July 4th celebration after large horses were spooked and bolted into a crowd of thousands. His quick actions helped save lives.
• A young Ohio officer used a TRIK pouch (Trauma Rapid Intervention Kit) to respond to a serious gunshot wound. The compact, vacuum-sealed kit included:
  • An Israeli bandage (pressure dressing)
  • Nasal airway
  • Blanket
  • Medical gloves
  • Scissors

  Although the TRIK kit is no longer produced, Dr. Andrew Dennis notes that similar lightweight trauma kits are available.

Additional Real-Life Examples:

• An officer who saved a boy after touching a downed, live wire
• A cop who rescued a choking child with a piece of candy lodged in their throat
• A Louisville officer who revived a non-breathing infant
• Scenarios where officers were harshly criticized for misinterpreting diabetic episodes as signs of intoxication

About Dr. Andrew Dennis

Dr. Dennis is the Chief Trauma Surgeon at Cook County Hospital, a sworn law enforcement officer, and the Medical Director for the Illinois State Police (ISP). He makes a compelling case that:

“Law enforcement officers are often seen solely as enforcers, not as caregivers—and that needs to change.”

Why This Matters

According to Dr. Dennis, this perception gap leads to missed opportunities:

• For life-saving interventions
• To improve public perception and relations
• To support officer health and well-being
• To potentially reduce post-traumatic stress

He highlights the Illinois State Police as a national model:

• All ISP troopers receive emergency medical response training at the academy.
• In a recent year, ISP troopers were credited with over 400 life-saving interventions, including:
  • Heart attack and stroke responses
  • Knife and gunshot trauma care
  • Narcan administration
  • AED usage

Dr. Dennis firmly believes it’s time the public sees law enforcement officers as life-savers—“the good guys and gals”—on par with EMS and fire services.