STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, COLORADO-March 25, 2020-Steamboat Springs Fire Rescue continues to respond to community emergency calls but is taking heightened precautions due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) when arriving on at an incident.
“As we all know, it’s a changing environment and we’re adapting to best serve our community while keeping first responders safe,” interim Fire Chief Chuck Cerasoli. “We’ll treat every situation as if it is COVID-19 related until we determine otherwise.”
SSFR personnel will don personal protective equipment when they arrive on scene and the extra level of precaution by firefighters shouldn’t alarm the public. The community should keep in mind that this does not necessarily mean the call is COVID-19 related or a suspected or positive case is at the location.
When calling 911 for an emergency, callers will be asked to provide standard information as well as specific COVID-19 related questions. In addition, a responding SSFR fire officer may call you to gather additional information prior to the arrival of the crew. Once Fire/EMS arrives, they will be wearing at a minimum safety glasses, masks and gloves. In cases with COVID-19 related symptoms, one or more firefighters will be wearing gowns and full-face shields.
Once the initial assessment has been completed and COVID-19 is suspected, Fire/EMS crews along with public health officials and family member, will determine if the patient should stay at home or be transported to the appropriate healthcare facility. SSFR is following the recommendations of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention for patient care and emergency transport.
“Our staff is participating in daily video briefings to stay informed of the latest protocols and safety procedures,” continued Cerasoli. “I can’t emphasis enough the importance of staying home, social distancing and following personal health guidelines from state and federal agencies.”
In addition, SSFR reminds the community that 911 is for emergencies only and should not be used for virus related questions. Please do not use 911 seeking information about COVID-19, a ride to the doctor’s office, virus testing or if you have mild symptoms. The best resources for COVID-19 are covid19.colorado.gov, covid19routtcounty.com, and the local help line, 970.871.8444.
SSFR serves the city and surrounding Steamboat Springs Area Fire Protection District, a 387-square-mile area with an estimated base population of 20,000 people with upwards of 35,000 people with visitors. It is the only paramedic level service in Routt County and provides paramedic level services when requested by other fire agencies in the county through mutual aid agreements.
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Contact
Chuck Cerasoli, Interim Fire Chief, 970.879.7170, or email
Michael Lane, Communications Manager, 970.871.8220 or email