In a recent article, the Sentinel Newspaper profiled the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad and the work we have done over the last four months to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. The article outlines the unprecedented challenge the organization faced in updating internal protocols and meeting the highest standards for care and safety of our patients and providers.

BCCRS’ response to the pandemic has been guided by a unique group of volunteer paramedics, firefighters and EMS personnel, several of which have specialized public health backgrounds.

The Squad also has increased its fundraising efforts during the pandemic to cover the higher costs of COVID-19 specifically (such as PPE and advanced cleaning equipment) and the higher operating costs of operating at surge capacity.  Unlike other local fire/rescue departments in Montgomery County, the majority of staffing at BCCRS is provided by volunteer personnel, and relies primarily on donations from the community to fund its operations.

Read the full article here: Link