Red Cross Amid the Outbreak
Written by Juliana on April 6, 2020
Red Cross Amid the Outbreak
By Ben Stemrich
April 6, 2020

The Lehigh Valley is rallying behind its first responders during the coronavirus crisis — donating equipment, hand sanitizer and other items.
Bob Novatnack is the emergency manager for the City of Bethlehem. He says that’s been a big help — because personnel are dealing with the virus while also responding to other emergencies, like vehicle accidents and house fires.
“They’re assessing every call a little differently and just more details with the people they’re dealing with, and only putting the resources, first responders at risk that need to be at the call,” said Novatnack.
He says the number of calls coming into the 911 center is down, and that could be because more people are at home. Novatnack emphasizes that all 911 calls are being answered, and Novatnack says he wants to make sure no one hesitates calling if they have an emergency.