For immediate release: March 23, 2020
MIDDLETOWN NJ, — The Middletown Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department today announced that they are prepared to safely respond to COVID-19-related emergencies within our community in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and medical direction recommendations.
“EMS Chiefs James Kelly, Floyd Goldstein and Frank Brancati have been in constant contact with our Health Department, Office of Emergency Management, Police and Fire Departments,” said Mayor Tony Perry. “We are so appreciative of these men and women who volunteer to put their lives on the line when responding to these calls.”
Township first responders have been receiving continual updates from the CDC, our State and Local Health Departments and Offices of Emergency Management. The EMS Department has been modifying the treatment and transport plans to better protect the doctors, nurses and techs who work in the hospitals in our area as well as the citizens of Middletown.
“We’re working closely with our counterparts in 9-1-1 dispatch centers to ensure that we’re protecting our community and first responders,” said EMS Chief James Kelly. “We’ve mandated more stringent response and decontamination protocols to prevent transmission of COVID-19, and have stockpiled personal protective equipment that is getting distributed to our frontline providers.”
How the Community Can Help:
· If you call 9-1-1 for an emergency, be prepared to answer questions about the health conditions of the patient and anyone else in the house.
· If you’re exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19, contact your medical provider first (by phone) for guidance.
· Follow all CDC directives: Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, don’t touch your face, maintain a six-foot social distance when in public, avoid shaking hands/hugging/kissing, and if you’re sick, stay home.
“We are thankful for the community’s support during these unprecedented times and hope that everyone stays safe and healthy,” said Chief Kelly.
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