How Firefighters Are Staying Safe from the Coronavirus


As the COVID-19 health crisis continues to grow more serious and claim increasing numbers of lives across the country, everything seems to have come to a screeching halt. With over one million Americans infected and at least 53,000 killed, the country is grappling with one of the worst crises in its history. Amid growing concerns about the spread of the novel coronavirus, record numbers of people across the country are now working from home. Previously, the ability to work remotely was a luxury only the relatively affluent could afford, but that has now changed.



However, workers who are deemed “essential” must continue working as before. Along with healthcare workers, sanitation workers, and reporters, firefighters, paramedics, and other first responders are considered essential by the US government. Fire departments and EMS agencies have been on the front lines of the outbreak because their work is crucial in the fight against the pandemic.
That said, essential workers like firefighters need to take strict precautions to protect themselves and others from the virus. Here’s how they’re staying safe amid the pandemic.

Following the CDC COVID-19 Guidelines

In March, the federal Center for Disease Control and Prevention released guidelines for first responders such as firefighters, emergency medical technicians, and police officers. Some of the guidelines include:
· Not working when sick. Calling healthcare provider for guidance and medical advice before visiting the office.
· Contacting supervisor and occupational health program after exposure to a patient with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 infection when not wearing recommended personal protective equipment (PPE).
· Wearing the following PPE when interacting with patients with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 infection.
§ Fit-tested NIOSH-approved N95 or higher-level respirator. Facemask if a respirator is unavailable.
§ Disposable examination gloves.
§ Eye protection, such as goggles or face shield, if not wearing a full-face respirator.
§ Coveralls or gown.


How Fire Departments Across the Country are Responding to the Virus Outbreak

Fire departments in different states across the country are rigorously training paramedics in PPE and the handling of infectious patients. According to the San Antonio Fire Chief Charles Hood, the city’s fire department has emphasized the need for using airborne and universal precautions as well as distance assessments.



In New York City, firefighters are no longer being sent on medical emergencies that involve patients with COVID-19 symptoms. EMS members and paramedics will be handling these emergencies. This was implemented to prioritize the city’s thinly-stretched resources.
In Los Angeles County, a strong emphasis on PPE is being placed when firefighters respond to calls with patients who may be infected. In order for firefighters to better know if a call involves a potentially infected patient, dispatchers are screening all incoming calls so responders can utilize kits.
To learn more about how fire departments in cities across the country are preparing to work during the Covid-19 pandemic, check out this useful resource.
If you’re looking to take the New York Fire Department exam, you will need to prove your competency in a range of skills and abilities.

Preparation Classes to Take the FDNY Exam

Civil Service Success is a reputable civil service exam preparation school in New York City. The institute has been providing excellent, tried-and-tested NYC firefighter preparation classes for over 45 years. They have garnered a strong reputation for helping aspiring candidates realize their dream of working in civil service.
The FDNY exam is a two-part test that includes a written exam and a physical ability test once the written exam is passed.
In addition to helping you prepare for the NYC firefighter exams, they provide preparation classes for the Suffolk Police test, NYS Court Officer, and NYC Sanitation Worker exams.
Get in touch with them today for more information and start your journey towards committed civil service.

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