Butler County Emergency Services on Wednesday picked up a donation of 960 protective masks from MSA Safety in Cranberry Township for distribution to ambulance companies during the coronavirus outbreak.

Steve Bicehouse, Butler County director of Emergency Services, said the N95 masks, which filter out 95 percent of contaminants, are being given to EMS companies across the county, so caregivers will have protection while treating patients.

“They’re the first line of defense,” Bicehouse said. “We’re making sure ambulances are protected.”

In conjunction with Highmark Health and Allegheny Health Network, MSA obtained 65,000 N95 masks to aid the region.

County emergency services also received 3,600 masks from EMS West in Allegheny County to be used for patients treated by emergency services providers.