First responders around the world are on the front lines of the COVID-19 outbreak. Many responders – including healthcare workers, EMTs, paramedics, and firefighters are in need of supplies to continue to serve and take care of patients. .
According to Bossier City Police Public Information Officer Traci Landry, Bossier City’s First responders are in need of PPE (personal protective equipment). Gloves, masks, and gowns.
“If one first responder is not able to take the proper precautions and does become exposed, then that is one less person who can respond to a call for service. Additionally, having the proper equipment provides some peace of mind for first responders as they work to save lives and serve the community,” said Landry.
The Bossier City Fire Department has made a request for PPE through the Bossier Parish emergency operations center.
Landry says since March 9th, the Bossier City Fire Department has not seen a significant increase in EMS calls that they have responded to from week to week.
But Landry did say that that shouldn’t be used as an indicator for what could come.
“Looking back over the last three weeks to the 9th of March, there has not been a significant increase in EMS calls that we have responded to from week to week,” Landry said.
“However, that shouldn’t be used as an indicator that all is well. We anticipate that there will be an increase over time. We cannot stress enough the importance of following the Governor’s stay at home order and practicing social distancing,” she added.
Along with what other government officials have stated since the COVID-19 pandemic hit our community. Landry reiterates the importance of following social distancing guidelines to flatten the curve.
“We cannot stress this enough, it is up to the residents of Bossier, the community, to stop the spread of COVID-19. We need everyone to do their part. Limit essential store runs,” Landry said.
“Strictly follow social distancing guidelines – stay six feet away from the next person. If there is a crowd – avoid it. If there is a line – stand six feet behind the person in front of you. If the aisle is full – go around or go another way – wait for it to clear. Avoid handling cash. If you can, use a card to pay.
“Wash your hands. Wash your hands. Wash your hands. If you are an essential employee, follow social distancing rules at work. Make sure you, your friends, your family, and co-workers frequently disinfect touched surfaces such as telephones, cell phones, computer keyboards, light switches, door handles, coffee machines, microwave handles, toilet flushers, sink handles, and faucets.”
Last month through coordinating efforts led by the Bossier Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, a local college and mall donated PPE to the Bossier City Fire Department and hospitals in Bossier.
The extra supplies came from Bossier Parish Community College (BPCC) nursing school which is temporarily closed to students and Pierre Bossier Mall management utilizing materials available in the former Virginia College campus.
The face masks, gloves, and gowns will be used by first responders and medical professionals in the fight against the spread of COVID-19.
If you would like to donate supplies to the Bossier City Fire Department. Please first contact the Bossier City Fire Department to make the arrangements to do so.
