Ways to Support First Responders During COVID-19

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First responders at state and local levels deserve commendation for their dedication during the pandemic. Steps such as physical distancing, disinfection in the workplace, and use of personal protective equipment can help reduce COVID-19 transmission and support their safety. Surfaces like desks, computers, and shared equipment should be regularly disinfected, and personnel should follow CDC guidelines for protective equipment disposal.

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Uploaded on Mar 15, 2025 | 0 Views

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COVID-19 & FIRST RESPONDERS First responders at the state and local level are to be commended for consistently being on the front lines throughout the entirety of the COVID-19 pandemic. T o assist first responders in completing their activities as safely and efficiently as possible several steps can be taken to reduce transmission of COVID-19.

PHYSICAL DISTANCING AND DISINFECTION IN THE WORKPLACE

PHYSICAL DISTANCING If at all possible, all personnel should attempt to maintain a distance of at least six feet. While eating or sleeping in crowded locations ensure appropriate physical distance is maintained, if at all possible.

DISINFECTION IN THE WORKPLACE All commonly touched surfaces and shared equipment should be cleaned at least daily and surfaces with a higher frequency of contact should be cleaned more than that. These surfaces should be disinfected through standard cleaning practices as well as the use of an EPA -registered disinfectant.

DISINFECTION IN THE WORKPLACE Surfaces such as desks, computers, tables and doorknobs should paid specific attention. Disinfection of equipment should be common practice to reduce the transmission of COVID-19.

USE OF PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT AND INTERACTION WITH THE PUBLIC

USE OF PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT BY FIRST RESPONDERS While engaging in patient care, personnel should at minimum wear a facemask. Gloves and eye protection should be considered when dealing with individuals suspected of being infected with COVID-19.

USE OF PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT BY FIRST RESPONDERS Always follow CDC or local guidelines when attempting to properly dispose of personal protective equipment. Always wash reusable personal protective clothing to the manufacturer s standards.

INTERACTION WITH THE PUBLIC COVID-19 infection should be suspected in all individuals where there is moderate community spread. Minimize the number of personnel exposed to a suspected infected individual, if at all possible.

INTERACTION WITH THE PUBLIC If the personal protective equipment becomes grossly contaminated immediately replace the equipment if possible. Limit the number of personnel in all transportation compartments to reduce possible exposure.

RECOGNITION OF SYMPTOMS AND SELF ASSESMENT Each first responder should do a daily self-assessment and determine if they are fit to work that day. All symptoms should be considered when determining if you are infected with COVID-19.

References 1. Recommendations and Sample Procedures/Guidelines to Maintain Risk Mitigation of COVID-19 Transmission in EMS and Fire Agencies https://www.emergencymedicine.pitt.edu/sites/default/files/EMS%20and%20Fire%20COVI D-19%20Sample%20Policies%20v2021-05-05.pdf 2. Symptoms of Coronavirus. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html 3. COVID-19 Information for the First Responder Community https://www.dhs.gov/science-and-technology/covid-19-info-first-responders