The Metuchen Fire Department hosted a lesson Saturday on how to keep first responders safe if they encounter a person showing signs of having the coronavirus.

First responders are taking precautions responding to a potential flu or coronavirus call by wearing a mask, goggles and covering their hands with latex gloves. Then, they focus on keeping the virus from spreading on the scene of the response.

“Anyone who is symptomatic or that they believe has the virus, they put a simple mask on them,” says Metuchen Fire Chief Rob Donnan.

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Medical masks and fire masks are an integral part of keeping the airborne virus from spreading to police, fire and EMS crews, but the masks must fit correctly to be effective.

Metuchen fire crews test their masks twice a year to make sure they fit properly and are effective.

The CDC does not recommend people who are well to wear a facemask to protect themselves from the coronavirus.