On March 13th, the Rancho Santa Fe Fire Protection District was made aware that one of its employees may have been exposed to COVID-19 while off duty on travel. As a precaution, the employee and his assigned co-workers were excused from duty and directed to self-quarantine. On March 18th, the District was notified that the employee had tested positive for the COVID-19 virus.
The employee did work one shift prior to March 13th; however, was asymptomatic during his tour of duty. Station personnel did not respond to any emergencies or have routine business that involved interaction with the public. All other public agencies that this employee had contact with have been notified.
The employee remains self-quarantined at home and is in good condition. Two of his co-workers remain asymptomatic and will be returning to work in the near future; one other crew member will remain in self-quarantine pending test results.
All guidelines have been followed per local medical authority and the Center of Disease Control.
The Fire District cleaned and sanitized the fire station, fire apparatus, and all equipment upon notification of the exposure. This incident presents little to no risk to the public.
The Fire District has implemented strict procedures and quality control measures to provide for the safety and welfare of its workforce. Fire Chief Fred Cox wants to reassure the community that all Fire District personnel are fully focused on serving the community and that we are operating at full capacity and responding to emergencies normally.
The Fire District also strongly encourages residents to follow San Diego County Health Department’s public heath orders to help limit the spread of the COVID-19 virus. We are all in this together and everyone must do their part. For community resources, please call 2-1-1 San Diego or visit www.211sandiego.org. or www.coronavirus-sd.com.