Ultraviolet lights streamline sanitation in Allamakee County ambulances and hospital

Amid rising numbers of positive COVID-19 cases, Allamakee County medical providers have a new avenue for stopping the spread. Harnessing the power of local generosity, the Allamakee County Community Foundation has purchased 12 quick-sanitizing ultraviolet (UV) lights for the six ambulances services of Allamakee County, special eye protection glasses, replacement bulbs and two larger lights for Veterans Memorial Hospital.

“We are grateful to the people, organizations and businesses of Allamakee County who donated to this cause,” says Betty Steege, foundation coordinator. “EMS services touch us all, and the medical community needs our support more than ever as the virus continues to present challenges in our area.” 

The Foundation matched donations dollar for dollar from its COVID-19 Health Response Fund and Emergency Medical Services coordinated the purchase and delivery of the lights.The lights can be used for efficient, safe room sanitation in as little as 10 minutes, and can be remotely activated. This greatly shortens sanitation time and allows medical spaces to be occupied much more quickly following patient use. 

“The disinfecting practices used by the ambulance services in Allamakee County have always been a high priority for patient and provider safety. Adding a UV light to the existing practice allows us to disinfect on a new level and enhance everyone’s safety,” says Cheryl Livingston, a paramedic with the Veterans Memorial Hospital Ambulance Service and Allamakee County EMS. 

To learn more about needs in your Allamakee County community or donate to the Foundation’s COVID-19 Health Response Fund, contact Steege at 563.586.2046 or steebo@acegroup.cc.