Despite the Omicron variant causing COVID-19 cases in Alberta to skyrocket, the local fire department has managed to keep its members safe.
Only a couple of staff at the Fort Saskatchewan Fire Department have gotten sick with the coronavirus. Both members have since recovered.
Deputy director for emergency management Quinn Gillard explained they are closely monitoring the ongoing situation in the province.
"Like many other fire departments, COVID-19 has brought its challenges into the fire service for the last two years," he said. "The number one priority is making sure members are healthy and safe in order to provide excellent service to the community."
Services levels have not yet been affected by the spread of the new variant.
The department has many measures in place to try and keep its staff members safe. They are diligent about cleaning and having members wear PPE, the station is closed to the public, and any symptomatic employee or close contact is not allowed in until they test negative.
"I realize [this] is over and above provincial guidelines, but we're not taking any chances with our essential services."
Staff members that can work at home are also encouraged to do so.