Fort Worth officers begin to wear masks, gloves on calls in pandemic procedure shift
Fort Worth police officers began on Saturday to wear protective masks and protective gloves as they responded to calls during a pandemic.
The requirement, which started with the morning shift and applies to officers interacting with the public, is perhaps the most visible measure the department has taken since coronavirus cases began to increase.
“We understand that this is not ideal and will be an adjustment, but this decision has been made to protect the health and safety of everyone,” the department wrote in a statement.
Patrol cars are being disinfected and before each shift are being wiped down. The department has eliminated roll calls, the daily group meetings among officers and a commander.
The department has encouraged people to report some types of crime online or by telephone.
Officers are reminded in emails to wash their hands and observe social-distance guidelines, the department said.
