Firefighters isolated after contact with potential COVID-19 patient

UPDATE: MARCH 31, 2020 – 6 a.m.

CRESTLINE―After consulting with the fire department’s medical director, Crawford County Public Health and two charge nurses from local hospitals, the Crestline Fire Department is going back to normal operations after being on a total recall status over the weekend and Monday.

According to Crestline Fire Chief Steven Krock in a press release Monday night, all firefighters will follow the normal shift schedule at 8 a.m. on Tuesday.

Krock said two of his firefighters made a squad call for an individual last week who now is under quarantine at their residence awaiting the results of their COVID-19 test. The department then had a total recall, keeping the remaining four full-time firefighters at the station 24/7.

CRESTLINE — Two firefighters with the Crestline Fire Department remain in isolation after coming into contact with a potential COVID-19 patient.

Friday evening, the department had a total recall, keeping the remaining four full-time firefighters at the station 24/7.

CFD Chief Steve Krock said two of his firefighters made a squad call for an individual last week who now is under quarantine at their residence awaiting the results of their COVID-19 test. He said the firefighters are not showing symptoms of the coronavirus, but still are taking precautionary measures while at home such as taking their temperatures twice per day.

The two firefighters have not been tested for the coronavirus and plan to return to work if the test of the patient returns with negative results.

He said the four remaining firefighters did not have contact with the patient and are working and making runs on calls. Krock said the village will not be without fire protection as all four firefighters are on 24-hour call and other mutual aide relationships with other departments remain.

“We have the village covered,” Krock said.

Anyone calling 911 should inform the dispatcher if they believe they have symptoms of COVID-19. Krock said the dispatchers should ask the caller as well. The dispatcher will then relay the information to the firefighters.

Krock said with the projected months remaining of the coronavirus being in the area, it is imperative for everyone to follow health protocol and do their part to help protect their community.