The Vancouver Fire Department is working with its partners at the local, state and federal level to do its part to help get the COVID-19 vaccination to as many people who want it
The Vancouver Fire Department is working with its partners at the local, state and federal level to do its part to help get the COVID-19 vaccination to as many people who want it.
Vancouver Fire Chief Brennan Blue said “The Vancouver Fire Department is honored to be able to support our community in the vaccination effort. All of us have been affected by this terrible pandemic in one way or another, so when I asked our members if they were willing to participate in this endeavor, the answer was a resounding yes!”
Vancouver Fire is providing two emergency trained personnel to stand by at the Tower Mall drive through vaccination clinic. Their sole responsibility is to treat anyone who may have an unexpected reaction to the vaccination. This is an extremely rare occurrence.
The second way Vancouver Fire is helping is to visit group homes designated by the Washington State Department of Health and administering the vaccine. These populations are typically at higher risk for more severe complications from the virus and or have mobility issues that prevent them from venturing into the community.
To be clear, the Vancouver Fire engines, rescues and trucks do not carry the vaccine. Area residents cannot call 9-1-1 and have the fire department come to their house and give the vaccine. To find out where to receive the vaccine, talk to your medical care provider or visit https://vaccinelocator.doh.wa.gov.
“Over the last year, our firefighters have seen firsthand how this virus spread like wildfire into our community,’’ said Chief Blue. “When we were offered the opportunity to proactively engage to stop the spread, we did so without hesitation. I’m very proud of how our personnel have adapted to the challenges of COVID over the last year, it has been difficult to get to this point, but we are all optimistic that the path to return to some sort of normal life is in front of us. Vancouver Fire’s participation in the vaccine clinics is really just us being a part of the bigger health system contribution. Our doctors, nurses and local health professionals have all put it on the line to care for the influx of COVID patients and protect our community. Their efforts should not ever be underestimated. We are just excited to be part of the solution.”
Information provided by Vancouver Fire Department.
