As the outbreak of COVID-19 continues to unfold, it’s important we all take steps to protect our firefighters, paramedics and private ambulance companies who are on the frontlines of treating sick people. Please follow these steps to help us continue to provide the best service we can to our community:
- If you have minor to moderate symptoms consistent with COVID-19 (cough, fever, difficulty breathing, runny nose), consult via telephone with your primary care physician. The Washington State Department of Health Hotline (1-800-527-0127) and the King County Novel Coronavirus Call Center (coronavirus@kingcounty.gov or 206-477-3977) are also available to answer questions about next steps to take.
- If your condition worsens and becomes more severe, call 911 and relay important information regarding your symptoms to the dispatcher. While you will likely be asked these questions on the call, be sure to mention if you have any symptoms and if you’ve been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 patient. Relaying this information is pertinent so responding personnel arrive to the scene with the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment.
- If you are calling 911 for a reason other than COVID-19 (i.e. fall, vehicle collision, etc.), it is still critical to tell dispatchers if you have symptoms. If you flag down emergency responders on the street – be sure to shout out before they meet you that you may have symptoms.
We are in this together. Let’s continue to check on our older population and those with underlying health conditions, who have proven to be more vulnerable to this disease. Remember that even if you are young and healthy, you may still be a vector for the disease, and should take appropriate precaution. #WeGotThisSeattle