First responders breathe easier with donation
One of the half-mask respirators donated to the various first responder groups in the Silver Valley. Masks like these are safer and last longer than standard N-95 masks.
Photo by JOHN MILLER
KELLOGG — If you have left your home at any point over the last few weeks, you have likely seen someone wearing some sort of mask, either that or you’re wearing one yourself.
The unprecedented times that we are currently experiencing have led to folks buying up all of the respiratory protection that they can possibly get their hands on, which has unfortunately led to a shortage of them being available for first responders and medical personnel.
Chief officer Bill Holstein and the Shoshone County EMS Corporation recognized this issue and, with the help of some local businesses, they have ensured that all local first responder groups will have the respiratory protection that they need.
Through the donations received, Holstein acquired half-mask respirators and replacement filter cartridges that will replace the N95 masks that have become so in high demand.
This being a kind gesture is merely scratching the surface in Shoshone County, where we have a vast array of first responder groups, including Shoshone County Fire Districts No. 1 and 2, Prichard Murray Volunteer Fire Department, as well as Shoshone County EMS.
“It is well-known that there is currently a shortage of vital respiratory protection devices for first responders and medical personnel,” Holstein said. “Enough masks for each person who respond to medical calls and multiple filter cartridges were donated.”
Each mask is reusable with the filters and will also provide a higher level of protection for the first responders who may come in contact with multiple infected people on a daily basis.
“As a local EMS responder I am grateful for this donation, as it is safer and last longer than the N-95’s,” SCFD No. 1 Cpt. John Miller said. “Knowing that the mask is a proper fit gives me an increased sense of security. Proper PPE helps protect not only myself but my wife and children when I go home from work.”
Holstein would also like to put the public at ease should they see a first responder wearing one of these masks, that while the masks look insidious in nature, they are just a more effective way of keeping our EMS crews safe during the uncertain times we are experiencing.
“While these masks may look like something from a science fiction movie,” Holstein said. “Please remember the personnel behind the mask are still our local emergency responders trying to keep themselves and the public safe during these trying times.”
Holstein would also like to thank the businesses that donated to this worthy cause, including F&H Mine Supply, Cementation USA Inc., and Sunshine Mining and Refining.