| With the recent outbreak concerns over COVID-19, Trappe EMS has initiated modifications to our day-to-day operations. These modifications have everything to do with reducing the risk to both our community and to the EMS providers on which you rely.
A majority of these modifications will not be obvious or visible to our patients in our daily interactions, but please be aware that Trappe EMS takes public safety very seriously and are going above and beyond to provide a safe patient environment and interaction with all of our crews.
It is important to emphasize that our EMS providers ensure any equipment we use when we come to your aid at your home, business, roadway or any other place that you may need medical assistance, that it has been put through a very thorough inspection and cleaning process. Trappe EMS has always cleaned and decontaminated the ambulance and all equipment used after every patient interaction, and will continue to be hyper vigilant during the pandemic declaration.
Depending on the nature of the emergency and the information received during the dispatch of EMS units, Trappe EMS crews MAY be wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as masks, gowns, gloves and safety glasses, which helps prevent the potential spread of the virus within the community.
EMS providers wearing PPE are NOT infected or exposed to COVID-19. The PPE is for your protection only. Please do not be alarmed by this; our #1 priority is always to protect our patients and our providers.
When you call 9-1-1 you may be asked if you can meet the EMS crew outside if you are physically able. EMS crews also may provide you with a surgical mask and ask that you wear it throughout your interaction with health care providers. This does not mean the crew suspects that you have COVID-19, but again is for your safety as well as ours.
Be aware, if you call 9-1-1 for a medical emergency, let the call taker know if you are experiencing any flu-like symptoms, been tested and confirmed positive for COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. |
