Keeping the community safe is thePhoenix Fire Department’s top priority.

Along with that, officials also need to keep firefighters healthy, so they can continue to deliver the highest level of fire and EMS service to families.

With the outbreak of COVID-19, it’s important to take steps to protect first responders who are on the frontlines of treating sick people.

The fire department encourages the community to consider these options: 

• If you have minor to moderate symptoms consistent with COVID-19 which include a cough and fever, consult via telephone with your primary doctor. You can also dial 211 to obtain more information regarding Covid-19 from Arizona Department of Health Services-AZDHS.
• If your condition worsens and is more severe, call 911 and relay important information regarding your symptoms to the dispatcher.
• While you will likely be asked these questions on the call, be sure to mention if you have any of these symptoms- cough, fever, difficulty breathing and if you’ve been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 patient in the last 14 days. Relaying this information is pertinent, so responding personnel arrive to the scene with the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment. If possible, bring yourself or the patient outside and place a mask on them if available.
• REMEMBER- this information does NOT withhold a response or treatment from the 911 system. Rather, this information is obtained to protect first responders as well as your family and the community.
• If you are calling 911 for a reason other than COVID-19 (i.e. fall, vehicle collision, etc.), it is still critical to tell dispatchers if you have any Covid-19 symptoms. If you flag down emergency responders on the street – be sure to shout out before they meet you that you may have symptoms. And remember, during this crisis, do NOT visit a fire station in person for an evaluation.