Newark Public Safety Director Anthony F. Ambrose reports that three police officers and six firefighters have tested positive for Coronavirus (COVID-19).
“We are keeping these first responders in our thoughts and prayers for a speedy recovery,” Mayor Baraka said.
In a move to reduce exposure to this virus, Director Ambrose is creating a temporary COVID-19 Unit comprised of police and firefighters who are nurses and EMTs.
“They will respond randomly or by request to monitor the temperatures of on-duty personnel to ensure they are safe to serve the community.
Any staff member with a temperature of 100.4 degrees will be sent home,” Ambrose said.
Currently, 39 police officers and 46 firefighters are quarantined, with seven officers and four firefighters awaiting test results. There are 70 police officers and 11 firefighters out with flu-like symptoms. Two firefighters have returned from quarantine and several police officers are expected to return over the next few days.
As part of Director Ambrose’s safety strategy, gloves, masks and hand sanitizer are being provided to police officers and firefighters for all tours of duty. Further, all vehicles are being disinfected daily and police facilities and firehouses are continuing to be regularly disinfected.
“There is no interruption of public safety services in the City of Newark,” Ambrose said. “Our firefighters and police officers are once again exhibiting what they do best when facing a crisis —that’s to prevent and respond. I applaud the men and women of the Newark Department of Public Safety for their dedication and commitment to the people of Newark.”