Concern over the spread of COVID-19 has prompted innovation, cooperation and quick action between two West Valley fire departments.

The Buckeye Fire Department and the Buckeye Valley Fire District have come together to create a joint COVID-19 Response Unit to specifically deal with calls involving suspected coronavirus patients, according to a release.

Each team will be assigned to an ambulance and consist of an EMT driver from Buckeye Valley Fire and a paramedic from Buckeye Fire. The Unit will operate 24 hours a day out of temporary quarters to maintain separation from fire stations and personnel in order to minimize potential exposure.

For maximum protection, response teams will deploy in total personal protective equipment including a full bodysuit, mask, gloves, and boot covers to prevent any skin exposure.

This kind of operation will minimize exposure to a majority of firefighters and dramatically decrease the burn rate of PPE, according to the release. Currently, fire personnel are “suiting-up” and treating each call as if is a COVID-19 incident.

“I am grateful for the partnership with Buckeye Valley Fire District under the leadership of Chief Mark Burdick,” stated Buckeye Fire Chief Bob Costello. “These teams will give us the ability to serve our residents in the most effective way, while maintaining the safety of our personnel.”

The first COVID-19 Response Team will go into service Monday, March 30. A second will follow a week later, based on need.