People in every industry are touched by this pandemic, including first responders.
Madison police and fire departments have come up with plans and protocols for their officers, firefighters and emergency medical technicians, or EMTs.
“The objective, of course, is to keep our workforce healthy so we can continue to deliver the core public safety services for the community that we need to,” said acting Madison police Chief Victor Wahl. Both police and fire said they have cut nonessential services. For the time being, the fire department will no longer do any building inspections or community education. The police department has also asked officers to handle any calls they can over the phone.
For in-person calls, police officers, firefighters and EMTs have personal protective equipment, including gloves, masks, goggles and protective gowns, depending on the nature of the call.