Some fire departments around the country are growing desperate for more personal protective equipment and funding to fully operate during this pandemic. While most departments in the D.C. area say they have what they need, some recognize the possibility of running out.
Some fire departments around the U.S. have been forced to get creative when it comes to protecting fire and EMS workers on the front lines. For example, some firefighters in Phoenix, AZ have been spotted wearing ponchos. Others have been seen handling COVID-19 patients without gowns.
Gary Ludwig, an Illinois fire chief and president of the International Association of Fire Chiefs, said fire departments should not have to go through this.
"Right now, I can't say that we feel like a priority," Ludwig said.