Police look to make life saving change

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - Indiana lawmakers are pushing to make some changes in the way SWAT teams respond in certain situations. 

State lawmakers want to allow medically certified SWAT team members to perform certain medical procedures while in the field.

Right now, medical personnel have to stay a certain distance from the scene until it’s secure.

Members of the SWAT team, even medically trained ones aren’t legally protected to perform life-saving measures.

The proposal wants to change that.

Terre Haute SWAT team commander Shawn Keen says they’re a bit ahead of the game.

A few months ago, they started looking into assigning a team member to act as a medic with the team.

“We just see it as essential, from the things that we’ve had to deal with over the years. It definitely could save a life if it’s put into place and done correctly,” Keen said.

Supporters of the measure say not every SWAT member will be allowed to perform these procedures under the legislation. Only those who are specially trained and certified would be covered by the law.