While many people are sheltering in place because of the coronavirus, first responders on the front lines are taking steps to protect themselves from the threat.
When 911 calls are made to the communications center, operators now are asking questions they did not ask previously, said Kevin Dove, assistant chief of the Fayetteville Fire Department.
Callers are being asked if they have traveled outside the United States, if they have had contact with anyone who tested presumptive positive for the coronavirus, and if they have a fever.
“Based on the type of call we get, we are wearing protective gear to ensure the safety of first responders and the patient,” Dove said. “We are using every precaution that we can take to the best of our ability.”
Dove said that supplies of protective gear are low and that will be a challenge for first responders if the spread of the virus is long term.