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As many of us are tasked with simply staying home these days, our frontline emergency responders are not as lucky. They continue, unwaveringly, to answer 9-1-1 calls and respond appropriately, despite the threat of infection and exposure to the deadly COVID-19 Coronavirus disease.

Although we don’t – and may never – have the total numbers of DFW-area emergency responders who contract COVID-19, we do know that both Dallas and Fort Worth have personnel with confirmed cases of the disease.

As of March 31st, the Fort Worth Police Department says three (3) of their officers have tested positive. Luckily, all three are in self-isolation at home.

This morning, the Dallas Fire-Rescue Association says seven (7) members of their force have contracted the virus and a total of 50 are in quarantine.

Dallas Police Department’s latest numbers (as of April 2nd) indicate six (6) of their officers have tested positive.

The Plano Fire Department says two (2) of their firefighters have tested positive as well.

All departments across the DFW Metroplex, and certainly the country, are taking extra precautions when answering medical-related calls. Many of the 9-1-1 callers are asked questions as a pre-screening before they come into contact with fire and police. Many of the emergency responders now wear increased personal protective equipment to shield against any patient who has tested positive, or may be positive, for the virus.

The threat for community spread is listed as “substantial.” The CDC is now recommending the use of masks when conducting business or errands outside of the home.

The most effective way for you to keep yourself and others healthy is to STAY HOME. We all have a part to play in the health and safety of our community. This includes all our brave firefighters, paramedics, and police officers working around the clock to keep us safe!