Navigating The COVID-19 Health Crisis—Information, Leadership, And Support
Navigating the COVID-19 Health Crisis was the first of three programs in the Destination Zero Fatality Report and Program Series, a series of programs to supplement the release of the 2020 Law Enforcement Officers Fatalities Report.
During the program we heard from Dr. Alex Eastman, Senior Medical Officer with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and Deputy Commissioner John Miller, Intelligence and Counterterrorism with the New York Police Department, as they discussed the need for early and accurate information, visible leadership and clear communication, and departmental support during COVID-19 and other public health crises.
Determined Action Items:
- Designate someone in your agency to be responsible for purchasing and managing the supply of tests, personal protective equipment (PPE), and cleaning supplies.
- Reduce the spread by limiting physical or social contact at the workplace.
- Identify which staff can work from home to reduce the number of people who must work in the office.
- To lessen the risk of exposure and spread, enter fewer residences, and ask medical questions in advance.
- If medical information needs to be communicated over a radio, then a series of codes should be created to keep it private.
Destination Zero Top 5 Tips:
- Wear your mask and gloves.
- Sanitize your vehicle at the beginning and end of each shift.
- Sanitize your leather gear at the end of each shift.
- Change out of your uniform before entering your home.
- Avoid non-essential contact with the public.
Final Thoughts
Develop and practice emergency protocols on a regular basis for a potential future pandemic crisis. Package these procedures so they are clear and understood by all personnel. Within this process, always keep enough supplies stocked and stored in proper conditions.
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