Everett Firefighters Taking Extra Precautions Due To Coronavirus (COVID-19)

This announcement came in today from the Everett Fire Department regarding precautions firefighters, paramedics and other personnel will be taking on medical calls in response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases increasing in our area.

Don’t be alarmed if you see firefighters and medics wearing masks.

Our Firefighters, who are all EMTs, and our Firefighter/Paramedics work in our community to deliver emergency medical services. We often respond to 911 calls with little, or no information about the condition of the person in need. With the possibility of encountering Coronavirus (COVID-19) in our county, we are taking a proactive approach to protecting our members, their families, and our community by taking additional precautions when treating patients with respiratory complaints, regardless of the cause.

This message is intended to inform you of changes that we are making, so you are not alarmed if you happen to see our crews wearing equipment that is not their standard firefighting gear. The extra equipment you see in these photos are goggles for eye protection, N-95 filter masks, which protect their respiratory system, and gloves. In the event we encounter a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19, they will also be wearing disposable gowns.

Just as we have asked of you, we are also following proper hygiene habits to help prevent the spread of respiratory illness, including #COVID19.

The Everett Fire Department also is sharing CDC’s general everyday preventive actions you can take to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases.
• Stay home if you are sick.
• Cover your cough/sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (see the video below on proper method), especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
o If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.