Today on Colorado Edition: We hear from some of the people offering basic firearm information online in response to a high number of first-time gun owners. Plus, we learn more about why counties around the state are taking COVID-19 testing and tracking into their own hands. We also talk about fire season in Colorado and how the pandemic plays into prepardness.
Counties Take On COVID-19 Tracking
It can be hard to get a COVID-19 test here in Colorado. The state is focusing testing efforts on hospitals and healthcare workers, which means we don't really know the extent of the virus' spread. That's why some counties are taking testing and tracking into their own hands. Jason Blevins of the Colorado Sun joined us to talk about why the counties are looking to source local data from residents. You can read his reporting here.
Larimer County's Self-Reporting Dashboard
One of the counties looking to gleam info from residents is Larimer County. Katie O'Donnell from the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment joined us to discuss that county's "self-reporting dashboard" for COVID-19 symptoms. If you would like more information, you can find that dashboard here.
Basic Firearm Training Offered Online To First Time Gun Owners
As the coronavirus has spread across the U.S, gun sales have surged. That means many new gun owners. In response, long-time gun owners are stepping up to help these newcomers get some training in the age of social distancing. KUNC's Leigh Paterson has that story. You can listen to her story here.
Preparing For Fire Season In Colorado
Last week, a large fire burned near Meeker, Colorado — a reminder that despite the snow, as the weather warms, we usually see wildfires across our state. Of course, the state is planning for those fires. On Friday, the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control issued the 2020 Wildfire Preparedness Plan. According to that plan, Colorado likely has an average fire season ahead, but COVID-19 will place a potential strain on the state's ability to respond to wildfires. Vaughn Jones, the state's wildland management section chief, joined us to talk about the plan and the state's preparedness.
Colorado Edition is made possible with support from our KUNC members. Thank you!
Our theme music was composed by Colorado musicians Briana Harris and Johnny Burroughs. Other music in the show by Blue Dot Sessions:
- “Hundred Mile” by K2
- "Camp Fermin" by Zander
Colorado Edition is hosted by Erin O'Toole (@ErinOtoole1) and Henry Zimmerman (@HWZimmerman), and produced by Lily Tyson. The web was edited by digital editor Jackie Hai. Managing editor Brian Larson contributed to this episode.
KUNC's Colorado Edition is a news magazine taking an in-depth look at the issues and culture of Northern Colorado. It's available on our website, as well as on iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts. You can hear the show on KUNC's air, Monday through Thursday at 6:30 p.m.