Here at South Whidbey Fire/EMS, we are constantly monitoring the on-going COVID situation through local, state and federal agencies. We have been responding to infectious diseases for a long time. This is not new to us; we have trained on this very situation and are here to help you and your family if you need us.

We are ready to respond, and have changed how we operate to reduce the spread of the virus to you and our first responders. Additionally, our firefighters and emergency medical technicians are continuing to keep abreast of any new developments as this disease is constantly changing. 
 

When we respond to a medical call, we may show up with a gown, mask, eye protection and gloves. It can look a little daunting, but don’t worry! This is to protect you and first responders from spreading the virus. We may also limit the number of personnel entering the residence to the absolute minimum, and stage additional responders just outside, ready to assist if they are needed. We may place a mask on a patient to prevent any droplet transmission.

There are good resources available to South Whidbey residents to learn how to protect yourself and your family. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends:

• Wash your hands often for 20 seconds.
• Don’t touch your face with unclean hands.
• Cough or sneeze into a single-use tissue and then dispose.
• Stay home if you feel unwell. If you feel unwell, contact your health care practitioner before calling 911 or going to an emergency room.

There are other resources where you can learn more about COVID-19:

Island County Public Health: https://www.islandcountywa.gov/Health/Pages/COVID-19.aspx#guidance

Hotline 1-360-678-2301

Washington State Department of Health: www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/Coronavirus

Hotline: 1-800-525-0127

Center for Disease Control and Prevention www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov

Thank you for your continued support.