As the COVID-19 cases continue to climb in Colorado, first responders and health care workers worry about their own protection due to a shortage of personal protective equipment.

Thankfully, in these arduous times, a Colorado native has stepped up to help decrease the shortage of protective masks. Matt Hartley has been making face shields and masks for firefighters in Arvada.

"As many people as I can, I want to try and help out," said Hartley in an interview with Fox31 Denver.

Hartley, the founder of Matt Hartley Lighting, LLC., spent the past 20 years working in lighting design and is now using his skills and 3D printers to create gear and shields similar to the one he uses for his work.

Hartley's new operation involves manufacturing plastic medical masks that can be cleaned and reused. Then, they are assembled into kits and sealed with instructions.

Video by Hartley Custom Creations

The manufacturing of masks and shields was first intended for medical staff, but Hartley has plans to drop off a donation for the Arvada Fire Department.

Firefighters have always been first responders and that duty hasn't changed because of the coronavirus pandemic. Lieutenant Travis Fox of the Arvada Fire Department stated in the interview that in an emergency, firefighters are going to show up.

Arvada firefighters are currently treating everyone as if they're a possible COVID-19 patient, using full Tyvek suits, masks, gloves, and glasses.

Hartley has a new Facebook page called Hartley Custom Creations, where he shares and promotes his new products. Hartley urges anyone who needs a shield or mask to go to his website or Facebook page and buy one; however, first responders' orders will be prioritized.

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