Springfield Fire Department bounces back after quarantines

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WICS/WRSP) — Springfield Fire Chief Allen Reyne gave an update on the department after 73 firefighters were quarantined last week due to COVID-19.

Reyne said firefighters are getting back to work quickly and things are going back to normal.

The two fire engines that were out of service because of the amount of people in quarantine are back up and running and fully staffed.

"We do still have 19 on our positive list, but they're dropping off of that and returning to work pretty rapidly," Reyne said.

Reyne also said firefighters have been good at keeping their distance in the fire houses.

Tuesday, Nov. 17, was Reyne's second day back at work after recovering from COVID-19.

The fire chief also announced on Tuesday that he will retire from the department at the end of the month.