As the U.S. approaches one year of COVID-19 pandemic guidelines, Pullman first responders have been trying to adjust to the new normal.
Several areas of operations have changed since last year, said Pullman Fire Chief Mike Heston.
This includes optional COVID-19 vaccinations, following pandemic protocols and closing the fire station to the public.
He said 60 percent of the fire department’s first responders have received the COVID-19 vaccine.
Close to half of the Pullman Police Department’s sworn-in staff have received it as well, said Pullman Police Chief Gary Jenkins. Getting vaccinated for COVID-19 is not mandatory for Pullman PD staff.
Jenkins and Heston said their teams are following strict cleaning and safety protocols — from wearing masks to social distancing during calls.
The fire department has cleaning devices that clean vehicles after transporting patients who have or are suspected to have COVID-19, Heston said. Each cleaning device costs around $18,000.