COVID-19 QRV Key Messages as of March 16, 2020

We are prepared to respond to the growth of COVID-19 cases in our region.

As COVID-19 continues to spread in our community you can be assured that public safety agencies have thoroughly prepared to address issues as they arise, and have thoughtfully prepared contingency plans to manage the potential exponential growth of this disease.

As part of the COVID-19 response, Emergency Medical Services of Santa Cruz County have developed cooperative plans to address the potential for increased call demand. These plans include deployment of alternative resources such as Quick Response Vehicles (QRV) staffed with well-trained members from all Santa Cruz County Fire agencies. This is being done to ensure that the public need for emergency medical care is fulfilled.

This system allows us to better serve you during this time.

As the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases continues to rise throughout the world, the United States, and in our region, we are responding by utilizing a quick response vehicle system that will allow us to keep first responders and public safe when responding to calls. This system ensures a coordinated response to COVID-19 in our region and will also allow us to provide consistent and accurate information to the public.

We are working together to protect our entire region.

The Santa Cruz Fire Department, in collaboration with (list agencies), will be activating Quick Response Vehicles (QRV) throughout the County in an effort to better protect the community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The following agencies have made it a priority to protecting individuals and our communities, while mitigating the impact to our healthcare system as a result of the spread of COVID-19:

• AMR
• Aptos Fire District
• Ben Lomond Fire District
• Boulder Creek Fire District
• CAL Fire
• Central Fire District
• EMSIA
• Felton Fire District
• Santa Cruz County EMS / Public Health
• Santa Cruz County Fire
• Santa Cruz Fire Department
• Scotts Valley Fire District
• SCR911
• Watsonville Fire Department
• Zayante Fire District
  

If you are sick…

To maintain the availability of critical emergency resources (Fire, Medical and Law) we are asking that if you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 and may have had contact with a person with COVID-19, or recently traveled to countries with apparent community spread, call your health care provider or local public health department first before seeking medical care so that appropriate precautions can be taken.

When should I seek emergency medical attention for COVID-19?

If you develop emergency warning signs for COVID-19 get medical attention immediately.

Emergency warning signs include:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
• New confusion or inability to arouse
• Bluish lips or face

If you have any COVID-19 related symptoms please let 911 or your healthcare provider know.

Stay informed…

For general information on COVID-19 please call 211, or text coronavirus to 211211, or visit www.santacruzhealth.org/coronavirus for updates and links to state and federal guidance. 

Conditions continue to evolve at a dynamic pace and further social distancing measures may be instituted based on COVID-19 spread and recommendations from the County Health Officer. Prevention and preparedness moving forward is our best defense.