International School of Tactical Medicine

03/16/2026

The terrorist attack at a Jewish school in Michigan demonstrated this emerging and disturbing trend of asymmetrical style tactics, as the attacker rammed his vehicle into the building before attempting to continue the assault with a weapon and starting a fire. Fortunately on-site security quickly engaged the suspect, preventing the attack from escalating.
The preparedness of the staff, who had previously received active-threat response training, helped ensure a high level of situational awareness and a rapid coordinated response. Incidents like this highlight the critical importance of training and readiness in preventing greater tragedy.

03/16/2026

This weekend we conducted another Emergency Preparedness and Response to Targeted Violence course at a Christian school—our second course this week. In light of current events around the world and here at home, this type of training is more important than ever, helping participants recognize warning signs, report suspicious behavior, and respond effectively to violent threats.
Students also learned the Run, Hide, Fight framework and basic Stop the Bleed principles, emphasizing rapid hemorrhage control with direct pressure and tourniquets—critical lifesaving skills when seconds matter most.

03/13/2026

It’s no exaggeration to say that in light of current world events, situational awareness is more important than ever.

Stay alert to your surroundings, remain cautious, and be prepared to report and respond to suspicious activity when you see it.

Prevention and preparedness remain two of the most important keys to personal and community safety.

03/02/2026

EP students practiced drills emphasizing threat mitigation, principal protection, and rapid extraction to cover under dynamic conditions.

Repetition builds confidence. Realistic training builds capability.

03/02/2026

Executive Protection teams must be prepared to operate in all conditions — ready to immediately respond to threats, move their principal to cover, and rapidly address traumatic injuries when seconds matter most.

Preparation, protection, and performance under pressure define true readiness.

03/02/2026

It's been a great weekend delivering our Executive Protection – Tactical Medicine Response (EPTMR) course to law enforcement and civilian EP professionals.

Students integrated Executive Protection fundamentals with TECC-based tactical medicine in a realistic, scenario-driven, force-on-force environment — focusing on protective movement, threat mitigation, hemorrhage control, and casualty extraction.

When protectors can both stop the threat and stop the dying, they become a true force multiplier.
Looking forward to the next training evolution.

02/28/2026

Massive arterial bleeds require immediate action. Before using gauze, apply direct, hard pressure with a gloved finger to the bleeding vessel. This critical step can temporarily stop hemorrhage. Once controlled, pack the wound tightly with hemostatic dressing and maintain pressure for three minutes. Stop the bleed first, then secure it.

02/27/2026

Fire and EMS agencies nationwide are training in Rescue Task Force (RTF). This vital approach bridges law enforcement and EMS during active threats. RTF teams enter warm zones under protection to provide immediate hemorrhage control, airway management, and extraction, saving lives when seconds count. It's not just an option; it's the new standard of readiness.

02/26/2026

President & CEO Salvador Cortez debriefs with Mike from after a week long Advanced Tactical Medicine class. If you like what you hear, reach out to the International School of Tactical Medicine for more information on tactical medicine training opportunities.

https://loom.ly/9PISZiI

Listener discretion is advised.

02/26/2026

In trauma care, preventing hypothermia, acidosis, and coagulopathy is crucial. Blood loss rapidly drops body temperature, impairing clotting and worsening shock. A simple Mylar blanket reflects body heat, maintaining core temperature and breaking this deadly cycle. Keeping trauma patients warm is life-saving.

02/25/2026

It is with deep sadness that we share the sudden and unexpected passing of our good friend and instructor colleague, Sergeant Jason Whelen.

Jason first came to ISTM as a student, and it quickly became clear that he was meant to be part of the teaching cadre. As an instructor, he delivered exceptional training to both law enforcement personnel and civilians alike. In our civilian programs especially, he made a tremendous impact — bringing professionalism, humility, and an engaging style that always placed the students first.

Jason was always smiling. Always learning. Always willing to serve. Above all, he lived his faith openly and passionately. His commitment to living a Christian life and serving God was not just something he spoke about — it was something he demonstrated daily through his character and actions.
He will be deeply mourned and profoundly missed by many, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and the San Joaquin County Sheriff's Office.

It has been our honor to work alongside him and to have been a small part of his earthly journey.
Rest easy, our brother. 🙏🏽

02/17/2026

Confused about TCCC and TECC? Both use life-saving principles but differ in application. TCCC is for the battlefield under fire, while TECC adapts these concepts for civilian high-threat events like active shooters. One is for war, the other for our communities.