Denver Health Paramedics Call For Hazard Pay As Coronavirus Pandemic And Civil Unrest Continue

DENVER (CBS4) -- Paramedics with Denver Health are asking for hazard pay as they deal with COVID-19 and civil unrest. They're also asking for support and consideration from the public when they are trying to treat people hurt when protests turn into riots.

"Denver Health Paramedics face unique challenges in responding to the COVID-19 global pandemic and now historic civil rights protests and demonstrations," officials with the Denver Health Workers United Paramedics Caucus (DHWU) stated.

Between Thursday and Sunday, Denver Health Paramedics treated 54 people on scene at protests and took another 57 to the hospital. That includes three Denver police officers and a civilian, who were hit by a driver Saturday night.

"Given the hazardous and volatile environment for the Denver Health Paramedics, including damage to several ambulances and troubling social media posts suggesting that our ambulances are 'Trojan Horses' for law enforcement, we are now responding to medical calls in full body armor," DHWU officials stated.

Throughout each night of protesting, the first repsonders wore ballistic vests and helmets, as well as gas masks.

"Paramedics urge the public to use restraint toward frontline healthcare responders at public demonstrations," representatives said. "In the context of civil unrest, the DHWU Paramedics embrace the principles of medical neutrality, and we remain committed to providing level one care for all."

RELATED: Denver Health Paramedics Go Into Riots Without Hesitation To Treat Injured People

The DHWU is now calling on Denver Health Executives to "immediately implement fair and equitable compensation practices for its frontline workers who continue to put their lives at risk every day."