Response model

The Jerusalem Township Fire & Rescue Department is notifying residents it will continue to respond to 911 calls for emergency services and has no plans to change its response model at present despite the coronavirus pandemic.
However, what is changing is the appearance of first responders, said Jasmin Tropf, a firefighter, who said crews will be wearing personal protective equipment, including a gown and respirator mask, on all rescue runs.
She said some residents may mistake the gown and mask for a Hazmat suit.
The township is distributing 1,500 flyers to residents, notifying them of the new equipment and asks them to inform young children and elderly who may be intimidated by the appearance of first responders.
“We ask you pass this along to elderly and young children as our temporary appearance may look frightening,” the flyer says.
The department asks residents to follow guidelines set by the state during the pandemic.
Tropf said it will continue to maintain local code enforcement and inspection services.