By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
First responders in Great Bend are preparing for how they respond to any calls that report symptoms of COVID-19, or coronavirus.
Fire Chief Luke McCormick says EMS has already responded to a few calls where the reporting party was concerned that they might have contracted the virus, but all of the cases turned up negative or something else.
McCormick says what is challenging is that this time of the year there are people reacting to influenza and allergies, but precautions are being taken regardless.
"We are still in the height of the flu season," said McCormick. "The same symptoms could appear as the flu or respiratory issues, so we are taking precautions both ways."
Communications or 911 Dispatch has been told to screen all calls by asking subjects where they have traveled, and if they have a fever or cough. Once dispatch has identified those cases, Great Bend EMS takes precautions with respiratory masks, eye protection, gloves, and possibly a gown.
"If you see an ambulance pull up in front of your neighbor's house and we come in with a gown, it just an precautionary step and it is not saying the patient has coronavirus."
The Great Bend City Council approved a motion last Friday to close public access to all city buildings, including the two fire stations.
"We will adjust accordingly," added McCormick. "We like to be community focused and be out and about, but I think it is important to practice isolation and follow the recommendations of the experts."
Building permits will be handled online through the city website, greatbendks.net and building inspections will still be carried out as needed with good social distancing techniques.