As most members would know, COVID-19 locations are growing. Since last SitRep, four stations have been taken offline for deep cleaning and numerous firefighters have been sent for COVID-19 tests. Accordingly, from 0800hrs Thursday 31 December 2020
Metropolitan East 1, 2, 3 and Metropolitan South 1 are to adhere to Levels 1, 2, 3 and 4 restrictions in the attached document.
All other Metropolitan Zones are to adhere to Levels 1, 2, and 3.
Regional Zones are to adhere to Levels 1 and 2.
Metropolitan stations should have also received a message through the teleprinter today which in part needs clarification.
Firstly, the timing of this instruction has left some on-shift firefighters with little choice in organising their meals for the current shift. Any of today’s on-shift members, or any member not notified of the instruction prior to attending work, who needs to visit a supermarket or food outlet can do so providing they follow all COVID-19 procedures outlined in the above attached document. I understand that this restriction may inconvenience some members. Further discussions with the Department will occur over the coming days to see if a more suitable solution can be found.
Secondly, in conversations with Sydney North members, Covid IMT and reading today’s teleprint, it is clear there is some confusion about when to wear a mask. I ask all members to read the attached document and be vigilant in wearing a mask.
Thirdly, what are essential fire safety visits? FRNSW Safety Visits will only occur at the request of a community member to ensure vulnerable and at-risk members of the community have working smoke alarms. Essential and critical PIPs (high risk hazards, buildings with cladding) and Brigade Exercises for new AFA connections can continue to be undertaken ensuring compliance with physical distancing rules and regulations.
It seems NSW may be on the verge of a serious escalation of COVID-19 cases. We all need to be highly vigilant and do all we can to limit the spread and impact we may have. This means working to minimise our movements and when we can’t do that, to make sure we reduce risk by wearing masks when moving amongst the community. Stay safe.
