Firefighters take extra precautions amidst ongoing pandemic

Kellen Woodcock ‘21

Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue Station 69. Photo by Kellen Woodcock.

In response to COVID-19, firefighters for Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue (TVF&R) are taking extra precautions including ditching their standard firefighting uniforms for hazmat style suits and N-95 masks.

“It’s added an extra layer of protection but it’s also added an extra layer of stress,” said Captain Tim Nokes, a former State and Western Regional Firefighter of the year. “That ‘What if?’ Is at the forefront of your thoughts all the time.”

Nokes has observed a heightened level of angst when responding to calls that involve the classic COVID-19 symptoms he described as “the fever, the cough, the sore throat” which he said, “always heightens your awareness a bit.”

First responders have had to adapt on the fly to the CDC’s ever-changing guidelines for workplace safety in regards to COVID-19, while also being expected to be able to do their jobs at a high level. Nokes referred to an example of a fellow firefighter at his station in Wilsonville, who tested positive for COVID-19 and couldn’t return to work until he got two negative tests in a row, which is now not a requirement.

The extra precautions extend beyond the fire station though, as Nokes also noted the extra steps he has taken at home to try and keep his family safe. 

“When I get off shift, I’m definitely concerned about my family,” he said. “I’ve changed my routine when I get off of work.”  He now is sure to take a shower as soon as he gets home, washes his clothes immediately after that, and tries to not bring his work shoes inside the house.

The TVF&R as an organization and the individual firefighters themselves have had to take measures to protect themselves from COVID-19, while also serving the community to the best of their ability.