Safety fears rise; Quarantined firefighters forced to use vacation and sick time
Texas Border Business
WESLACO, Texas, April 14, 2020 – For several weeks, Weslaco firefighters have sought guidance from the city regarding protocols for possible Coronavirus / COVID-19 exposures and mandatory quarantines of first responders. So far, the response has been troubling, according to the Weslaco Firefighters Association.
Weslaco firefighters asked for protocols that comply with state and federal guidelines and national fire service practices. More than 1,000 Texas firefighters have been quarantined with possible exposures in recent weeks. In most of the cases, cities and emergency services districts (ESDs) are putting firefighters on paid administrative leave while COVID-19 test results are pending. Many quarantined firefighters also are provided courtesy hotel rooms and meals at city expense if isolating at home risks family members.
In Weslaco, at least three firefighters have been ordered by the fire department to use personal vacation or sick time during quarantines. Other questions have arisen about fire department COVID-19 response issues, including short staffing and the availability of proper personal protection equipment (PPE).
John Peña, president of the Weslaco Firefighters Association, said, “Without better coordination and cooperation, the health and safety of Weslaco citizens and firefighters will be put at risk. This is life and death. We urge the fire chief to work with us, not against us. Our requests for better COVID-19 protocols are intended to keep our fire department strong and the citizens safe. This is not a time for political retaliation or attacking the messenger. Our focus must be on ensuring public safety and making the most of the resources we have in Weslaco.”
According to the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) and the Texas State Association of Fire Fighters (TSAFF), Texas law covers COVID-19 exposures as “presumptive” injuries under the workers’ compensation system. Many Texas cities and ESDs have further clarified that pandemic-related injuries will be covered by workers’ compensation insurance.
Peña added, “Weslaco firefighters are grateful for the support of the community. In good times and bad, we strive to deliver excellent service, be good stewards of community resources, and give back. We’ll get through the COVID-19 pandemic together – by observing state and federal safety recommendations like social distancing. But no matter what, we’ll be ready when you call for help.”
CONTACT: John Peña, President, Weslaco Firefighters Association, IAFF Local 3207, (956) 684-8166, weslacofirefighters@yahoo.com.
