Press Release: For Immediate Release

Prepared by Steven Isaacson – Division Chief / PIO

1590 E Seltice Way, Post Falls, ID  83854 (208) 777-8500 cell: 913-593-9339

Date:  March 16, 2020

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The COVID-19 virus is requiring some operational changes at KCFR.   We join you in having hope for a rapid resolve of this current national crisis.  Please rest assured, that we are here, committed to the long haul and determined to continue to provide excellence in response to our communities’ emergency needs.

During this National Emergency we ask visitors to identify and state your purpose of business in order to enter our Headquarters facility and once in, visitors may be asked to wear a simple face mask if ill and access to areas will be restricted.  KCFR has also suspended the use of its facilities for non-essential meetings and public gatherings.  For now, our office hours remain the same, but we stand ready to expand if necessary.  Please be aware that KCFR does not have PPE supplies for public use available. 

KCFR with concern for both citizens and employees, is suspending all scheduled events until further notice including community station tours, fire extinguisher classes, public education programs, and public events. As part of the social distancing plan set forth by Federal, State and local officials to keep firefighters and citizens safe and healthy, KCFR asks that if you have an emergency you call 911 and at this time, if possible, stop visiting fire stations throughout the Fire District unless emergent. 

You should be aware that when KCFR receives a 911 call to respond to someone exhibiting symptoms that are flu like or consistent with COVID-19, citizens could potentially see firefighters arriving wearing personal protective gear that includes goggles, masks, gloves and gowns.  This is our new normal and we ask that you understand the precautions we are taking.  

We appreciate your understanding and will continue to provide updates as reasonable.  Finally, if you are not feeling well, we ask that you visit another time.  As you can imagine the health and safety of our personnel is paramount so that we can continue to be ready to serve our citizens and partners.  

For COVID-19 information:  Please use the Panhandle Health District hotline: 877-415-5225

HOW WILL YOU FIND OUT ABOUT LOCAL EMERGENCIES?

Sign up for Kootenai County emergency notification system.
By opting into the Alert! Kootenai emergency notification system, you will be informed before, during, and after incidents that could impact your safety.

For more information:
Online - www.kcgov.us/alertkootenai or (click here)
Phone - (208) 446-1850
E-mail - ENSsupport@kcgov.us