Protective masks, disinfecting wipes needed by City of Lodi police, firefighters and Public Works employees
City inventory nearing depletion with orders backlogged
LODI – Supplies of masks and disinfecting wipes, needed to keep Lodi’s police officers, firefighters and Public Works employees healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic, are in short supply, prompting the City of Lodi to request donations Tuesday, March 24.
Although the City has ordered new supplies, and has requested assistance from State and federal agencies, vendors are unable to keep up with the surge in nationwide demand, especially for N95 (particulate filtering) and surgical masks. Donations are being accepted at the Lodi Police Department.
“We need the community’s help to keep our firefighters safe,” Lodi Fire Chief Gene Stoddart said. “We respond to every medical emergency call in the city, so our crews need that protection to stay healthy so they can help the next person in need.”
Lodi’s firefighters typically use 450 N95 masks a week responding to medical calls, a number expected to rise as COVID-19 cases mount. Vendors have not committed to providing Lodi with any N95 masks at this point, making for a critical shortage.
Police officers also need masks because they also are in close, extended contact with persons who may be ill with COVID-19. In case police transport someone in their vehicles, wipes are needed to disinfect the interiors.
“Our community needs every officer healthy and ready to work,” Police Chief Tod Patterson said. “These masks are essential to continue keeping Lodi safe.”
Lodi’s Public Works and Fire departments also request surgical gown donations to protect against splashes of liquids that may contain live COVID-19 viruses.
Donors are asked to come to the Police Station at 215 W. Elm St., and use the intercom button to the right of the entrance to speak to dispatchers. The lobby is closed to the public at this time.
For more information and facts on coronavirus, please visit http://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus and http://www.sjcphs.org/#hl1236