PEPPERELL — Police Chief David Scott wishes to provide the community with the folllowing update regarding COVID-19.
“Last week’s announcement from our Board of Health regarding a resident of Pepperell testing positive for COVID-19 brought an increased reality to the ongoing crisis. I want to take this opportunity to reassure our residents that the men and women of the Pepperell Police Department continue to serve and protect our town through this unprecedented time.
“The information from our federal and state leaders seems to flow constantly, and we are continually processing it here at the local level. We communicate daily with Emergency Management Director David Querze, Fire Chief Brian Borneman, Communications Director David Stairs and other members of Pepperell’s Local Emergency Planning Committee.
“We previously announced how COVID-19 has caused us to make some changes in how we interact with you, such as taking some reports over the phone, managing firearms licensing via mail, and temporarily suspending voluntary fingerprinting services. Our building remains open only for emergencies and other police related matters that can’t be handled over the phone or via email.
“We have increased the frequency and intensity of our building cleaning. Our support staff is now working remotely. Additionally, we are considering changes to our scheduling as well as our cruiser and equipment sharing protocols to lessen the potential spread of the virus. We are self-screening for temperature and other signs of infection daily. The Communications Department is screening callers with health related questions prior to dispatching officers to scenes.
“Through previous purchasing, supply-sharing with our fire department, and donations from our community, our stockpile of masks and other protective equipment is currently adequate. We are expecting a delivery of personal protective equipment from the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency next week and are continually searching for realistic resupply opportunities.
“We are doing all of this for one reason: to stay healthy. Our goal is to stay healthy so that we can continue to serve and protect the citizens and visitors of Pepperell to the best of our ability. We thank those of you who have offered take-out and other donations.
“Please know that we are and will continue to be ready to respond to assist our residents when called and remain committed to keeping our community a safe place. As always, please reach out to us with any questions or concerns at 978-433-2424.”
###
Discover more from John Guilfoil Public Relations
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.