As the curve begins to flatten, Hartsville Fire Company would like everyone to stop and thank the one first responder service that stepped up, while the rest of us stepped back. As we saw a rise in the infection rate, fire companies and police departments reduced their exposure with the general public and with each other. Roll calls, company meetings, and training were cancelled or taken to an online virtual classroom. Members were trained on how to properly put on and take off new anti-infectious PPE. We then waited. Calls for fire and police services dramatically dropped. The stay at home order reduced our call volume for numerous reasons. While we sit and prepare for what comes next, the emergency medical services that protect Warminster Township have taken the burden on their shoulders. EMS has never gotten the accolades that police and fire departments receive. Even though they receive years of training and certifications. These highly trained responders are putting their life in danger responding to calls. That is not what scares them. What scares them and all healthcare providers is that they now expose their own family to the same danger when they come home. This virus has increased their call volume, doubled the length of time each call takes and has placed a tremendous amount of stress on each provider. As we get to return to the new normal these providers will become even busier as they continue to struggle to treat individuals with COVID-19 and then all of the other calls that come when the stay at home order is lifted.

Hartsville Fire Company would like to thank Central Bucks Emergency Medical Services, Warrington Township Emergency Services (Warrington EMS), Tri-Hampton Rescue Squad, Second Alarmer's Association and Rescue Squad of Montgomery County, Horsham Fire Company EMS and all the EMS agencies across are area. We are honored to be by your dedicated service to others. Today you are our heroes.