Members of the community can now pick up free rapid, at-home COVID-19 tests from North Country Emergency Medical Services at their fire station in Yacolt at 404 S. Parcel Ave.
Those who would like a test can ring the doorbell at the fire station and staff will provide as many iHealth Lab COVID test kits as needed, stated a news release.
“Our community relies on us to keep them safe from hazards like fires, natural disasters and now the COVID-19 pandemic,” stated fire and EMS Chief Shaun Ford in a news release. “As we head into winter and spend more time indoors, we encourage folks to come and pick up a box of COVID-19 tests at North Country EMS to have on hand at home, if and when they are needed.”
The testing service is designed to be easy to access for community members. Test kits are available to pick up every day for free and no appointment is needed.
“COVID-19 tests are an important tool in our agency’s toolbox as we all continue to live with the virus,” Ford stated. “We aim to ensure our citizens who are at an elevated risk of contracting and experiencing complications from COVID-19 have a test on hand to check their status. Knowing if you have COVID-19 can help you stay at home, and stop the spread of the virus to neighbors, friends, classmates, and loved ones.”
The test kits are available to anyone regardless of insurance or immigration status. No personal information needs to be provided at pick up. People also do not need a referral from a health care provider to pick up a test kit.
“Some experts predict we are heading into a third wave of infections with COVID-19 this winter,” Ford stated. “We hope that our low-barrier approach to providing COVID-19 tests helps ensure that everyone who wants a COVID-19 test, has one.”
Ford said community members should not call 911 if they are in need of a test kit.
“We need to keep 911 available for emergencies,” Ford said. “If you would like a COVID-19 test, do not call 911. Please come to the station and we will provide them to you.”
