Alberta firefighters taking extra measures to keep safe
Posted April 6, 2020 7:38 am.
CALGARY (CityNews) – The world has changed for everyone since the COVID-19 pandemic started and that includes fire departments responding to calls differently and firefighters changing their work routine the minute they walk into a fire hall.
“We come into work, we have a station right at the door. We have the Virox wipes, we have a thermometer. We have a checklist and screening that everyone enters.”
President of the Alberta Fire Fighters Association, Brad Readman says it’s been a little draining since the pandemic started, especially with the additional gear they’re now required to wear every time they go out to a call.
The personal protective equipment (PPE) is the same used by other firefighters, hospital staff and paramedics across North America.
It includes an N-95 mask, extra gloves, coveralls and a face shield to act as a closed barrier while continuing to maintain close contact with those they’re helping.
“It’s been proven to work in regards to SARS, Ebola. We’ve seen it protect us on a regular basis,” said Readman.
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When crews go out for a call they’re screened for flu-like symptoms and once on scene, a crew member will go in to check the patient and if needed, the engine crew will assist.
Readman says he understands the measures are put in place to keep crews safe and healthy, especially since there’s no end in sight.
As for the fire hall, he says it’s two people to a gym and two to the kitchen.
“It’s a different time. We’re in a different world and we need to put everything on hold for a bit and make sure we’re taking care of ourselves as well as those who are going to be taking care of us.”
The Calgary Fire Department is switching to 24-hour shifts to limit exposure in the fire halls, something Readman says isn’t mandatory for all Alberta stations yet.
With no set date on when the COVID-19 pandemic will end, it’s something they’ll consider to prepare for possible staffing shortages in the months to come.
