By Janelle Foskett
The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has launched a collection point for COVID-19 lessons learned and best practices.
IAFC President Gary Ludwig detailed that the Lessons Learned sharing environment, available on member forum KnowledgeNet, will capture best practices identified by domestic and international agencies. The practices shared will be those that have sound merit and practical application to help fire and EMS leaders navigate a variety of factors.
“The impact of the COVID-19 response on our personnel, our protocols and our capabilities have been challenged in new and unforeseen ways,” Ludwig said. “I am asking for your help in identifying the things we can implement right now that will protect our members and our citizens as we face an increasing threat from this virus.
Ludwig requested lessons learned related to the following areas:
- In-Station Social Distancing and Personnel Separation Practices
- Deployment and Response Protocols
- Shift Rotation Prophylaxis
- Returning to Quarters Decontamination
- Equipment Decontamination
- Quarantine and Isolation of Employees
- PPE Selection, Use and Modification for Duration
- Adaptive or Special Technology
The organization has also set up an email – C19ideas@iafc.org – where members can send lessons learned and attach any supporting documentation.
Chief Tom Jenkins, 2017-2018 IAFC president, will lead the effort.