A member of the Arlington County Fire Department has tested positive for COVID-19. The individual is doing well and managing the illness at home, with the full support of family and the department. The Arlington County Public Health Division has been involved with this case and has investigated any potential exposures to other people and patients who came in close contact with the individual.

More broadly, since the start of COVID-19’s spread in our area, the Fire Department has taken precautions to limit exposure to its employees and the public. The department is regularly researching best practices and recommendations from public health authorities and has implemented new Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) procedures along with its partners at Virginia Hospital Center. (View the equipment and appearance changes.)

The department has also adjusted its medical response procedures to continue to provide high–quality medical care while limiting the number of Emergency Medical providers who make close contact with the patients. While a full complement of providers are assigned to emergency medical calls, some will remain at the recommended distance and be called inside when necessary.

As a reminder, the public can slow the spread of COVID-19 by taking the following actions:

• Stay home in compliance with Gov. Ralph Northam’s order.

• Frequently washing hands

• Social distancing

• Coughing into a tissue and immediately washing hands

• Staying at home if you feel sick

For more, call the COVID-19 hotline at 703-228-7999