It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of life member and Honorary Chief William Rowse

During this difficult time we want you to know we are thinking of you. We hope you and your family are safe and would like to help by sharing some information to better protect you and your family, as well as our volunteer members and staff. 

In this unprecedented time it is extremely important that we all do our part to help prevent and lessen the spread of COVID-19. We urge everyone to listen to the federal, state and local governments to limit exposure. We can do our part by maintaining safe social distances as well as frequently and thoroughly washing our hands. Be sure to sanitize all surfaces, handles, door knobs and any other items that are frequently touched. Avoid touching your face. It is also important to stay home as much as possible, in order to limit contact with other people. 

Any residents experiencing COVID-19 symptoms should follow CDC guidelines. Unless you are in severe distress, it is suggested that you stay home and self-quarantine. If you must go to the hospital, for any reason and you are able to travel by car, please do so to limit unnecessary exposure for you and our crews. 

If you must go to the hospital by ambulance and are experiencing symptoms or have already tested positive for COVID-19 it is important to let the 911 operator know this immediately. If you have a surgical mask please put it on prior to our arrival. If you are able to meet the first responders outside please do so and immediately inform them of your symptoms or test results. If you are unable to meet them outside it is a good idea to post a sign on the exterior of your front door to let the first responders know as well as immediately inform them when they walk in. Our first responders will likely be wearing personal protective equipment (masks, gowns etc…) while maintaining at least a 6 feet distance prior to treatment. This may seem scary at first but is necessary for everyone's protection. 

We are a volunteer ambulance company, staffed with hard-working and dedicated members who give their time to serve our community. We are committed to protecting and serving the communities of Patchogue, Blue Point and parts of East Patchogue. We hope you see how important it is that all residents follow these guidelines so we can continue to limit exposure to our first responders. This helps us to keep everyone safe and our volunteers able to continue serving our community. 

We cannot do this alone. We need everyone’s help in every community to overcome this pandemic! A school superintendent said something profound in his address canceling school: “In the end it will be impossible to know if we over-reached or did too much, but it will be quite apparent if we under-reached or did too little.” We are all in this together and we will get through this!​ 

Sincerely, 

Alec O’Leary 

Chief of Department 

Patchogue Ambulance Company