The Omaha Fire Department says all personnel assigned to Station 31 will be offered testing for COVID-19 after eight firefighters tested positive for COVID-19.
In a Monday afternoon media release, the department said, "Additionally, ten other firefighters at Station 31 are taking COVID leave, permitted by an emergency city ordinance recommended by Mayor Stothert and approved by the City Council to provide paid leave for employees impacted by COVID 19, including those who may have been exposed and are in self-isolation or quarantine."
OFD says responses to calls for fire and medical emergencies will not be impacted by the staff members' absence.
Station 31, off of 25th and L, has had all apparatuses professionally cleaned. OFD says they are following the Douglas County Health Department and Omaha Fire Department protocols for all testing and treatments of the firefighters involved.
OFD say the firefighters are doing well and, "Are in good spirits. We look forward to their quick recovery!"