As firefighters, we’ve been saving lives throughout the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic. The rest of society quarantines at home, but we’re on the front lines, extinguishing fires and helping Coronavirus patients get the help they need as quickly as possible. 

Yes, we expose ourselves to blazing fires and a global pandemic at the same time, all in the name of saving lives. And our work plays a critical role in helping society recover from the Coronavirus.

But the real question is: how can we best protect ourselves and fight fires as this pandemic stretches on? 

In this article, we’ll share 4 tips you and your team can use to protect yourselves now so you can perform at top capacity and get Coronavirus patients the help they need throughout this pandemic.

#1: Stay Current on COVID-19 Related Health Regulations 

Our knowledge about how the Coronavirus spreads was limited at first, but health experts are learning more every day. They consistently update health regulations for the public and essential workers and create new practices to help stop the virus from spreading.

 Understanding how these regulations apply to us as firefighters essential in protecting ourselves from the Coronavirus and providing patients with the care they need on the fireground.

Frequently reviewing the CDC’s latest protocols for firefighters will help you learn about the latest health and safety requirements firefighters must take while serving during this pandemic. This section of the CDC’s site gives authoritative answers to pressing questions unique to firefighters.

It’s also important to discuss the CDC’s regulations for firefighters with your fire chief and your team since it will help you understand how to best execute these regulations based on your region and the unique scenarios you may face.

 #2 Communicate with your team

This point seems obvious. We’re first responders--we always communicate with our team. However, the Coronavirus requires adding specific formal and informal communication measures to your team’s repertoire. 

These methods can help you all stay updated on the latest Coronavirus-related information while bolstering teamwork and emotional support. After all, the ways we communicate and behave are the few things we can control, especially during these uncertain times. 

  Creating a team text or group on social media and having each team member send an informal, daily check-in update is a great way to help you stay on the same page, both during the pandemic and moving forward. It can also provide a sense of fun and relief for your team.

Holding a short, daily standup meeting can also help your team strengthen communication and relay critical information to each other. During the meeting, each team member can briefly discuss a firefighting practice related to COVID and how they’re feeling. 

The standup meeting gives each person on your team the opportunity to share important information, discuss new protective and rescue strategies, and share experiences they may have during this time. These meetings should take no longer than 5-15 minutes.  

#3 Protect Yourself With The Right PPE

We all know we need extra firefighting PPE and 3-ply face masks while interacting with people on the fireground who may have the Coronavirus. Your firehouse should provide you with this gear.

 However, it’s incredibly important that you wear the right PPE at all times on the fireground, even before it’s confirmed someone may have Coronavirus. This will give you an added layer of protection in the face of the unknown. Besides, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

 Here’s a quick list of the PPE you’ll need handy at every fireground as the Coronavirus pandemic stretches on (adapted from the CDC's regulations and site):

• An N95 or higher fit-tested NIOSH approved respirator
• A facemask
• The CDC requires recommends wearing respirators of N95 or higher instead of a facemask if you’re executing or are around for a procedure that generates aerosol.
• Stay clean-shaven when using respirators, since facial hair can cause them to leak around the seal.
• At least one pair of examination gloves
• Protective eyewear, such as a face shield or goggles
• A gown/coverall

PPE supplies are currently in high demand in the United States, and your firehouse may be short-supplied with few ways to quickly order more, so be sure to follow practices to safely remove and effectively store PPE that you’ll need to reuse.

Tip #4 Use Specific Firegear Tools to Serve Faster

Every second counts on the fireground. In addition to the essential gear, experience, and training, specific firefighting tools can help increase your efficiency and confidence so you can be as effective when the stakes are highest.

 Here are 3 products top firefighters are using to save lives faster during the COVID-19 pandemic:

1. SCBA Mask Bags

SCBA mask bags protect your breathing equipment so you can inhale pure air without contracting COVID. Ensure you store your SCBA mask in a bag that protects it well while allowing for easy transport and access before entering the fireground. Many SCBA mask bags are flimsy, so choose carefully. All Revolution Fire Gear’s SCBA Mask bags are light, durable, and scratch-proof so you can protect your most important breathing gear. They also come in a variety of vibrant colors.

2.  Aluminum Forcible Entry Wedges

Easily marrying to your Halligan bar, aluminum forcible entry wedges can help you pry open the most difficult doors significantly faster than using a Halligan bar alone.

But not all aluminum wedges are made equally: Look for aluminum forcible entry wedges made in molds to ensure your product will have smooth edges that won’t chip easily. 

3. Heavy-Duty Turnout Glove Straps

Heavy-duty turnout glove straps keep gear at your side without impeding movement so you can move faster without worrying about misplacing it when you need it most. Be sure to purchase glove straps with reflective strips so you  can see them, and others can see you, in the haziest conditions on the fireground.

In Conclusion:

Communicating effectively, staying updated on safety regulations, wearing the right PPE, and using strategic tools will help you and your team stay safe, put out fires, and save more lives during the Coronavirus pandemic.