A helmet removal system includes a detachable helmet liner configured to be positioned in a helmet. The helmet liner includes a central portion configured to receive a user's head therein, a frontal portion integrally formed with the central portion and configured to engage a user's frontal head portion. The helmet liner further includes dual side tab portions integrally formed with the central portion. The dual tab portions are configured to be moved between a folded position, inside of the helmet, to an unfolded position. The helmet liner further includes a top portion extending between opposing edges of the central portion. The helmet liner also includes a rear portion integrally connected to the central portion to provide balanced engagement with the back of a user's head. Helmet removal is achieved by applying lateral pulling forces to the dual tab portions.