UV lights aid Redding firefighters in slowing COVID-19
REDDING, Calif. — The Redding Fire Department is taking steps to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) by using UV lights to sanitize their trucks and equipment.
It's a move that allows the fire squad to ditch traditional chemical cleaners and sanitize medical equipment, computers, and any other hard surfaces in as little as 10 seconds.
In operation for just two weeks, the light has the potential to become a standard for sanitation in the department.
"I think it will always be an option from here on out just because we made the purchase and it would be irresponsible for us not to continue to use it," said Fire Captain Rik Valles. "But right now, the thing that's in our face is the COVID and this is how we're responding to it."
Those using the UV light are required to wear goggles and gloves to protect themselves while sanitizing.
Valles says members of the Redding Fire Station are doing their part to limit the spread of COVID by social distancing from one another when possible and wearing masks in public spaces.
