OKC Firefighters Become Resourceful With Equipment When Responding To Possible Coronavirus Calls

First responders across the metro are finding new ways to stay protected from COVID-19 despite the shortage in personal protective equipment (PPE). The Oklahoma City Fire Department has seen their calls for service decline since the pandemic started. Righ

Monday, April 13th 2020, 3:03 pm

By: Erica Rankin

First responders across the metro are finding new ways to stay protected from COVID-19 despite the shortage in personal protective equipment (PPE).

The Oklahoma City Fire Department has seen their calls for service decline since the pandemic started. Right now they are responding to about 100 calls less than usual in a day.

But of the calls they are responding to officials say about 10% of them are possible COVID-19 calls.

To protect themselves and the public, especially those at high risk they’re wearing something a bit different.

“We are wearing self contained breathing apparatus’,” said Battalion Chief Benny Fulkerson. “We are also wearing splash protection suits.”

Dispatchers are asking screening questions for COVID-19 so first responders have an idea of what they are dealing with whenever they do go out on a call.

As of now, no Oklahoma City firefighters have tested positive for the coronavirus and they hope it stays that way.

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