Firefighter Tells of Role in Fight Against COVID-19

Cleanliness and good hygiene practices is the key to keeping most diseases away, said COVID-19 frontline worker Apenisa Seru.

The firefighter was part of the frontline team whose task was to decontaminate public transport and premises occupied by COVID-19 suspected cases.

He was also involved with the mobile screening team. Mr Seru said COVID-19 allowed him to have a different perspective on life and realise how a simple act of washing hands could end up being the difference between life and death.

“Sanitising and cleanliness have become important in everything we do,” Mr Seru said.

“The support of our loved ones, workmates and the public has motivated us. The response from the Government to fight this pandemic has motivated us to work harder for our people. “The major challenge is the risk of bringing this sickness home.”

For Mr Seru, his family was more worried than he was. Although he did not stay away from home, family members were always concerned knowing the risk he was taking.

He said his employer National Fire Authority had provided protective gear and chemicals required.