In an effort to protect both responders and the public from the flu, OIFD responders have been issued extra precautions, such as a mask, gown, and booties, to wear on some calls.

“There is a two-fold reason for this,” division chief and paramedic Patrick Shepler said. “Number one, we have to stay healthy so we can continue to respond, but equally important, we have to reduce the risk of becoming contagious and passing flu on to another patient.”

Cases of the flu, seasonal and H1N1, are expected to rapidly increase over the next five to six weeks with the bulk of cases in the last two weeks of October.

“There have been 154 hospitalizations and 14 deaths from the flu in Washington State so far. San Juan County has had only sporadic cases, but schools on both Orcas and Lopez have had absenteeism rates over 10%, which is a fairly good indicator that influenza is in the community,” San Juan County health officer Dr. Frank James said.

When EMTs and firefighters arrive on a medical scene, responders may ask if the patient has flu symptoms like a fever, body or head aches, a sore throat or a cough. They may wear a mask similar to those worn by doctors and hospital personnel as well as protective gowns, gloves and booties.

Tours of the Eastsound Fire Station have been postponed until further notice. Anyone scheduling the public meeting room has been notified that events may be cancelled without warning if the station needs to close its office due to staffing concerns. Only responding members of the department will be allowed beyond the lobby and public meeting room.

“We need to keep answering the day to day calls. We still have heart attacks, car crashes, fires and other emergencies happening every day and those calls require health responders,” public safety and education officer Maxx Jones said. “If we all get sick, there will be no one left to answer the call.”

More information go to www.orcasfire.org and click on “Flu.”