BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — The Kern County Fire Department’s Chief David Witt has announced that until further notice all non-emergency community event support, ride alongs and station tours have been suspended due to rising coronavirus concerns.

The decision was made out of an abundance of caution and within the community and fire personnel’s safety and health.

However, all fire department activity related to 911 emergencies is ongoing.

The fire department is asking the community to assist them in the following ways:

1) When calling 911, notify call takers if you have symptoms consistent with COVID-19

2) Monitor the latest updates from credible sources such as the CDC, Kern County Public Health Services and the California Department of Public Health.

3) Protect yourself through everyday preventative actions like- washing your hands, coughing into your elbow, cleaning and disinfecting surfaces touched often, avoid contact with sick people, avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.

The Kern County Fire Department is monitoring the situation closely while working in partnership with local, state and federal partners to ensure the safety of community and employees.