The character also nods to the wartime idea of hunkering in a foxhole, as more people stay home and brace themselves for change. Of course, the agency doesn’t want to frighten anyone or issue propaganda. “Striking that balance between being cute but also serious is something we’re always trying to do,” Mr. Galbo said.

The U.S.C.P.S.C. uses data from the agency’s epidemiology department, surveys of emergency room records and product injury reports to inform its messaging; Quinn’s posts so far have focused on topics like child safety, poison control, smoke detectors, anchoring furniture and preventing falls.

“We’re always analyzing what’s hurting people,” Mr. Galbo said of the targeted approach. The agency has released several “Stay Safe” home checklists for various age groups during the coronavirus pandemic as well.

Mr. Galbo recognizes that in a crisis, many people turn to social media for answers. The agency posts to Facebook and Instagram, but most frequently to Twitter, where Quinn has become a calming, informative anchor on timelines otherwise filled with an ever-refreshing list of horrors and frustrations.

“People are coming for immediate information,” he said, but they are looking for distraction and connection. “That’s why we continue to move forward with this strategy of kooky characters teaching safety tips,” he said. “I think people are still looking for that kind of escapism.” As long as they are, the agency can try and teach them lifesaving lessons.