OCEAN CITY, Md.- Concerns over the COVID-19 outbreak continue to rise, now first responders are taking extra steps, but are saying to stay calm. In Ocean City first responders will be wearing additional protection called "PPE", which stands for Personal Protection Equipment. Before the first responders even brought us back to show us the equipment, they had to screen us by taking our temperature and making sure that we were not expressing any respiratory symptoms. Once they were done that they brought us back to show us what the equipment is that they'll actually be using. The equipment includes a gown, face shield, mask and gloves. This can look scary, but first responders want to set your mind at ease. Richard Bowers, the Ocean City Fire Chief said, "We want you to know we're doing it for your safety and our safety and not to be concerned, not to be afraid or not to be scared we're doing it for everyone's protection." First responders say they will show up in the full PPE, if you are showing any respiratory symptoms. If you have any different type of symptoms they will be wearing an N-95 mask. I was allowed to try it on because the fire chief says they are not in a shortage but they can never have enough. Officials say it's important to put in place the recommended guidelines. "We are practicing what we preach. We are keeping our distance, we are protecting ourselves, we are protecting any potential patients and we're protecting the general public," Bowers said. First responders and others from the town have met over the past week to talk about protocols in Ocean City. Now, the mayor is asking for people NOT to visit the town, in order to prevent the spread of the virus. Rick Meehan, the Ocean City Mayor said, "In order to protect our residents, to protect our visitors and our city employees this is the responsible thing to do. First responders say they are continuing to answer calls. Officials from Ocean City say as far as they know they have not transported any positive cases. First responders say that once they're done with each call they're going to dispose of the equipment and grab a new one with each new call that they get. They say they're going to continue this protocol and follow all CDC guidelines as they move forward.
Ocean City First Responders to Wear Addition Protective Equipment
