Though they worked for fire departments in Idaho, Massachusetts and New York, they faced a similar challenge that carried many unknowns.
Now, they're sharing how they navigated in the unchartered area as well as the aftermath of the pandemic in a documentary -- “COVID: Coast to Coast.”
“The pandemic tested our firefighters in ways we could never have anticipated. ‘COVID: Coast to Coast’ captures the hardship, resilience, and strength of our nation’s firefighters during one of the most uncertain times for all of us. Our bravest were on the ground, every day, witnessing the devastating impact COVID-19 had on their communities. But through their unwavering commitment, they came out on the other side stronger than before," National Fallen Firefighters Foundation CEO Victor Stagnaro announced Wednesday.
"The film captures both the professional and personal impact of COVID-19, offering an intimate look on how these individuals managed the daily challenges of the pandemic: rapidly changing public health guidance, shortage of protective equipment, the spread of misinformation, the daily strain of loss, and the profound emotional toll it took on their lives at home," NFFF officials announced in a statement.
Across the country, responders found themselves in unchartered situations.
"Leaders adapted in real time, finding solutions amid chaos and uncertainty. While preparing the unimaginable is never easy, COVID reinforced the importance of training personnel, investing in resources, and coming together in times of crisis. The experience continues to shape the fire service community and strengthen response efforts moving forward."
“COVID: Coast to Coast” is produced by Cool Water LLC and supported by funding from the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency, and Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program.
About the Author
Susan Nicol
News Editor
Susan Nicol is the news editor for Firehouse.com. She is a life member and active with the Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Company, Oxford Fire Company and Brunswick Vol. Fire Co. Susie has been an EMT in Maryland since 1976. Susie is vice-president of the Frederick County Fire/Rescue Museum. She is on the executive committee of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association. She also is part of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) Region II EMS Council. Susie is a board member of the American Trauma Society, Maryland Division. Prior to joining the Firehouse team, she was a staff writer for The Frederick News-Post, covering fire, law enforcement, court and legislative issues.