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Not at Risk Always Exposed

How A Police Family Faces Pandemic

A police family in Wyoming copes with the reality that they most likely will be exposed to and possibly contract the COVID-19 virus, despite none of the members being in the “at risk” category.

Ashton Hernandez’ job as a police officer has him exposed to the public and public places during this global pandemic outbreak. With the case count for coronavirus rising, it is only a matter of time before Officer Hernandez comes into contact with the virus.

 Officer Hernandez has two young sons, Jude, 4, and Noah, 2, and does his best to avoid and socially distance himself from the public but some contact is inevitable. He continues to keep up personal cleanliness on calls by sanitizing, hand washing as frequently as possible, staying cautious, wearing gloves and a mask. He believes that these precautions will continue to keep himself and his family safe from the virus.

The police department has cut down on some contact by doing briefings through group chats. They also have the officers work over the phone as much as possible.

            Instead of focusing on the negative of the situation, the Hernandez family is embracing the fun side of social distancing. Jude is especially thankful for the school closures.

He has been keeping up his schooling which is also incorporated into his daily activities. Jude has faith that his dad will be just fine and that everyone will be safe. “Daddy will get the virus and kill the virus” (Jude). Noah, who is too young for school, continues to learn through play. He enjoys the sunny days outside in the backyard with his brother and playing inside with his toys.