Normal Fire Department shows resilience despite COVID-19 cases

Posted on July 15, 2020
Humer said firefighters continue to operate using social distancing and wearing personal protective equipment. (Photo courtesy: Heart of Illinois ABC)

By Heart of Illinois ABC

NORMAL – Normal firefighters are generally unfazed after four of them tested positive for COVID-19, according to the town’s fire chief.

The firefighters are in different stages of recovery, but are all stable, said Fire Chief Mick Humer.

He said 11 other firefighters continue to isolate at home without symptoms. They will be allowed back on the job as soon as Friday if they test negative for the virus.

Humer said the department has been able to continue operations despite the impact of the virus on his staff.

It’s business as usual, said Humer, because others have stepped up to the plate.

“It’s kind of funny. Morale was pretty good actually,” said Humer.

“I think that once the shock wore off a little bit, people were like okay, this is what it is, and this is what we’re going to have to do,” the chief said.

Humer said firefighters continue to operate using social distancing and wearing personal protective equipment.

Heart of Illinois ABC can be reached at [email protected]. 

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