9-1-1 calls handled differently in Crisp County amid COVID-19 pandemic
CRISP COUNTY, Ga – Crisp Regional Hospital in Cordele has yet to see it’s first COVID-19 case.
That hasn’t stopped the hospital from preparing and at a press conference this morning, Crisp Regional went over a few precautions that they and county leadership are taking in order to keep COVID-19 numbers down.
Crisp County first responders are asking residents to remain calm and patient when calling 9-1-1.
Emergency callers are being screened so that first responders have a better idea of what they’re going into so they can avoid contracting the virus.
Crisp County Emergency Medical Services Director, David Edwards, says the safety of Crisp County’s first responders is a priority.
David Edwards
“Our 911 partners are very valuable, most of the time they’re the forgotten link in the chain of events but please be patient when they ask, if you call, certain questions related to travel history. That can help us prior to arrival on the scene to determine maybe the course of action we need to take that’s suitable for both the patient and our staff.”
Once the level of risk is considered, EMS personnel may arrive to the scene in abnormal attire, but Edwards says not to be alarmed.
gown and mask used in higher risk situations
“We may be wearing a mask and a gown and gloves, of course we wear gloves all the time, but those are things we don’t normally always wear and so please don’t be shocked, it’s on a case by case basis. It’s for our protection as well as the protection of the patients too. We don’t want to spread anything if we can help it.”
Edwards says cooperation with first responders is critical to ensuring Crisp County gets through this time.
“And we as citizens are the ones that’s going to make a difference in how severe or not severe that this becomes.”
Crisp Regional Hospital says they will continue to keep the hospital informed.
The hospital now has a 24 hotline (229.276.3068) that you can contact with questions or concerns in regards to the Coronavirus.
