The Wright City Police Department is taking extra precautions to protect officers from COVID-19, said Chief Matt Eskew.

Eskew discussed additional gear and practices officers have put in place during the April 9 Wright City Board of Aldermen meeting. He said it’s been a challenge to acquire enough personal protective equipment to prevent officer contamination.

“We are continuing to source protective gear whenever we can get it. It is definitely scarce,” Eskew said. “Every time we have an opportunity to pick some up, we do.”

The equipment includes “surgical-style” masks and hazmat bags, Eskew said.

He said the police department has also added a decontamination area to help prevent COVID-19 from infecting staff.

“We’re following some pretty strict guidelines given to us by the Warren County Ambulance District. Officers are now required to wipe down their boots, wash their hands, and Lysol spray other things like backpacks and duty bags — anything they’re bringing into the facility,” Eskew said.

Office equipment and police vehicles are also being cleaned and decontaminated multiple times per day, he added.

The outbreak of COVID-19 has affected the department in other ways, as well. Eskew said officers are running fewer calls that require criminal reports, but have stepped up patrols and checks on businesses. He said officers are trying to be a positive presence in the community.

“We are a strong community, and together we’re going to get through this,” Eskew said.