Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute • University of Maryland
April - June 2026 vol.56 no.2
CONTOMS — Training Medics for the Most Critical Missions Eighteen students in the Counter Narcotics and Terrorism Operational Medical Support (CONTOMS) EMT-Tactical Advanced Course at MFRI recently tested their tactical medical skills, training to remove victims from harm’s way during high-risk operations. The demanding scenarios required students to navigate confined spaces, breach floors, force entry, and use rope-rescue techniques to move manikins to safety. Designed to prepare medical providers to operate alongside law enforcement, CONTOMS equips responders with the knowledge and skills to deliver lifesaving care in fast-moving, high-threat environments where every second counts. In addition to tactical rescue operations, students received specialized training in emergency K-9 care for working dogs and sick-call medicine to diagnose and treat illnesses affecting teams during long missions. Photo (bottom left): CONTOMS students train together to transport simulated victims. Photo (top right): Students use tactical rope rescue and rappelling techniques to practice victim extraction. Photo (bottom right): Donning protective gear, CONTOMS students practice safety protocols and operational readiness.