Brothers and Sisters-

It has only been two days since our last status report and we have already seen unprecedented changes in this ongoing pandemic. This has definitely been a concerning time for all Local 2180 members, families, and our community. It has also been a challenge to keep up with the ever-changing situation and best practices. We have been working around the clock to ensure our members are protected in this time of crisis.

We also realize that this pandemic is creating a tremendous amount of stress and anxiety for all of us. Let us continue to listen to our subject matter experts and let best practices and medical and technical professionals such as the CDC and the IAFF guide our actions.

Here is the latest CHULA VISTA IAFF LOCAL 2180 update and information:

• Wednesday - 3/18: Fire Management notified the Local 2180 Executive Board that one of our members had tested positive for COVID-19. We understand that this is troubling news and please rest assured that we will do everything in our power to take care of our members infected. The San Diego County Health Department has been contacted and there is no medical recommendation or need to quarantine or test other employees at this time. Additionally, the affected employee was asymptomatic until the morning of March 16. The Executive Board will continue to work with Fire Management in ensuring our member is taken care of and all of our members' needs are met. We also understand that many of our members are concerned about potential exposure by the affected member.

• While all on duty exposures should be reported, the current Health and Human Services Agency and County of San Diego protocol and criteria for COVID-19 testing is the following:

  • If you have traveled to an area affected by COVID-19 within the last 14 days OR had   close contact with a person confirmed to have COVID-19

                                                               AND

  • Developed a fever and symptoms of respiratory illness, such as cough or shortness of breath.

• People who are asymptomatic are not being tested regardless of possible exposure.

• We will continue to advocate and work for streamlined processes in regards to COVID-19 testing. As of today, testing will be completed if a member has been quarantined and develops signs and symptoms. As a reminder, The Executive Board pushed for two weeks of DAL and immediate entry into the worker's comp system with positive test results. This is secured in writing to protect our members.

• Labor and Management are developing processes to make it easier for our on duty crews to purchase food for meals. We are working with supply chains to develop public safety shopping hours for ON DUTY shopping only. More to follow.

• Please complete Target Solutions assignment, get familiar with the CDC website, and review the IAFF CORONA VIRUS documents.

• Continue to use appropriate PPE and decon. Continue practicing social distancing when appropriate. Be vigilant with wiping, disinfecting and cleaning of the station, inside the cab, and equipment. Wash your hands.

• The Executive Board worked with management to secure (IN WRITING) Department Authorized Leave for anyone asked to quarantine. Additionally, if any member tests positive while in quarantine, they will be immediately placed into the Workers Comp system. The current time frame for quarantine is 14 days.

• Any member asked to quarantine will have the option to self-quarantine at home, or at City or County provided facility. (pending finalization of locations)

• We continue to work with management to develop a procedure for emergency staffing in case we see members quarantined.

• Adams, Ferrone & Ferrone has written emergency legislation to get a COVID-19 infection for firefighters presumptive. We continue to work with CPF, IAFF and local and state politicians to get this legislation passed.

• If you are sick, STAY HOME!

Please continue to take care of yourself and each other.

www.iaff.org/coronavirus

https://www.chulavistaca.gov/departments/fire-department/fire-training/ resource-materials