Starke County EMS crew members are working to keep themselves and others safe when responding to calls while taking COVID-19 precautions at every step.
EMS Director Travis Clary told the Starke County Commissioners last week that there are a few changes that are taking place for safety of the workers. If a breathing treatment is needed and the patient can go outdoors, the treatment is given in that environment for safety. He said dispatchers at the Starke County Justice Center are screening calls and asking if a potential patient has COVID-19 so emergency responders can prepare.
He stressed that they are responding to cardiac calls in the same manner where no changes have taken place.
He noted that crews have been trained on COVID-19 procedures and bloodborne pathogens overviews to keep everyone safe. Beyond that, Clary said they are doing what they can to remain healthy.
“Everybody is temperature-tested and a log is sent to the hospital every 12 hours with that information,” explained Clary. “There are no crew members positive with COVID-19 and we’re keeping a very close eye on that. We’re keeping up with hand washing hygiene, wearing masks whenever possible and things like that.
Clary thanked a number of people for their gracious donations of PPE, food, N-95 masks, cloth masks, and government leaders for their support during the pandemic. He also commended Starke County Health Nurse Frank Lynch for his efforts and guidance during this time as well as EMA Director J. Nier, EMS Coordinator Dale Lanham, and Medical Director Dr. Joseph Marovich.
