In the battle against coronavirus, first responders are stocking up on the tools they need to stay safe, including personal protective equipment and ultraviolet lights that zap the potentially deadly COVID-19.
Upper Pine Fire Protection District began using two portable ultraviolet lighting devices, which cost about $6,000 total, to disinfect ambulances and fire stations. Durango Fire Protection District has an ultraviolet lamp coming soon.
The germicidal ultraviolet technology, made by EvergreenUV of Memphis, Tennessee, is one way to provide extra security to emergency responders when other equipment is in short supply.
“There’s a personal protective equipment shortage everywhere,” said Bruce Evans, Upper Pine fire chief. “It’s difficult, not impossible, but it is difficult (to get supplies).”
Responders wear personal protective equipment, like Tyvek suits, eye-protection and N95 masks, when they respond to a call in which the patient expresses virus-related symptoms.