Protecting first responders amid coronavirus outbreak

Protecting first responders amid COVID-19 outbreak

First responders have to be on the job and protect and serve the public, so how do they stay safe? FOX 10's Carmen Blackwell reports.

PHOENIX - Police officer and firefighter positions are not a work-at-home job and they're definitely essential, but whenever they go out on a call, they not only have to deal with an emergency situation, but also the coronavirus.

Phoenix police say they are taking into consideration how muich of an emergency every call is before dispatching officers.

Phoenix firefighters say the good news is that they are prepared for these situations. They have masks and gloves and the donations being made have helped them increase their stockpile.

The department also tells us that 911 dispatchers are screening calls to see if patients may have symptoms of the coronavirus.

LIVE: Interactive Coronavirus case data and map

"So this starts out when a call comes in to 911, our dispatchers are now trained to listen for symptoms that maybe a COVID-19 type call and they will then alert our crews so they have the opportunity to put on the protective equipment that they need to effectively run that call and mitigate that hazard," explained Phoenix Fire Department Captain Kenny Overton.

Emergency workers are still at risk and we've learned that a Maricopa County Sheriff's Office employee has tested positive for COVID-19. The agency says that employee works at the headquarters in downtown Phoenix.

The building is currently being cleaned. MCSO is working with anyone who may have had contact with the employee.

We have also learned that a Phoeix police officer has tested positive for COVID-19. That officer was on vacation when he experienced symptoms and has not returned to work.

Three other department employees have also tested positive.

MORE:

Self-quarantine tips for those infected or at risk of the coronavirus

Wearing face masks and not sharing personal items are key to maintaining strong health.

In order to protect yourself from a possible infection, the CDC recommends:

Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Stay home when you are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

Continuing Coverage

FOX 10 is working to keep you up to date with local and national developments on COVID-19. Every weekday on FOX News Now, our live coverage begins at 7 a.m. MST reporting the latest news, prevention tips and treatment information.

You can watch live in your FOX 10 News app or on the FOX 10 Facebook page.

You can also get the latest coronavirus news from around the country at coronavirusnow.com.