Providence, RI – Within the past few weeks, the rapid spread of COVID-19 has led to the closure of all organizations apart from “essential businesses.” Companies such as first response teams are continuing to work and help combat the virus.
Providence Fire Captain Jim Varin is one of the first responders across the state continuing to do his job. “The government tells us just like everybody else, you have to keep your distance as best you can,” Captain Varin says in an interview. Even in dealing with calls regarding the virus on a daily basis, Varin believes first responders will be okay. He states, “As long as you are using precautions, everything will be alright.”
Tyler Varin, son of the Providence Fire Captain is grateful for the work put in by his father, and all first responders during this time. “Say thank you if you run into one” Tyler states in an interview. While scared knowing there is a risk of exposure involved, Tyler believes first responders are taking all necessary precautions; “I’ve seen on Twitter the firefighters are wearing masks and gloves, so I think so.”
According to RI.gov, on Monday, April 6, Governor Gina Raimondo announced a new COVID-19 testing site at Twin River Casino in Lincoln, able to perform about 1,000 tests per day. The test will be able to give results in under 15 minutes. “Thanks to the partnership and generosity of CVS Health, we will be able to double our testing capacity and provide on-the-spot results to thousands of Rhode Islanders each day.” said Governor Raimondo in the article, speaking for her televised address to the state.
According to the State of Rhode Island Department of Health, as of Thursday, April 9, there are 1,727 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Rhode Island, with 160 patients currently hospitalized.
Jimmy's Blog 