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Chilliwack biz sector asked to review safety plans with an eye to improvement

Dr. Henry came out with enhanced recommendations for preventing COVID transmission
23156024_web1_200519-CPL-City-Hall-ticket-windows_2
This plexiglass ticket window pictured on May 19, 2020 is one of four that was installed outside City Hall as a pandemic safety measure. (Jenna Hauck/ The Chilliwack Progress file)

The Chilliwack Economic Recovery Network is asking Chilliwack businesses to review their safety plans — on the heels of the most recent recommendations from Dr. Bonnie Henry.

The provincial health officer said this week they expect that people will wear masks in all indoor public spaces, especially with winter on the way, and businesses are asked to review their COVID-19 safety plans with this in mind.

“We all need to do our part to keep each other safe, especially with flu season at our door,” said Mayor Ken Popove. “I encourage all of our local business owners to make time in their schedule to take a good look at the safety measures they have in place now, and to see if there is any way they can improve.”

READ MORE: Check safety plans, says Dr. Henry

Physical distancing aides, occupancy limits, plexiglass barriers, hand-sanitizing stations, contactless transactions, and requiring masks are some of the most employed safety methods.

Wearing masks in high-traffic areas, where distancing is impossible, or when being close to those outside of your household bubble, will help protect the wearer and those around them.

“There are some exciting developments underway in our downtown that we would like to see continue,” said Kyle Williams, executive director of the Downtown Chilliwack Business Improvement Association. “Ensuring your business has a safety plan in place will help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and help us support a strong downtown core.”

Christmas is coming and it’s a key time for many local businesses.

“As we move into holiday shopping season, it is an important time for many businesses,” said Leanna Kemp, executive director of the Chilliwack Chamber of Commerce. “Showing customers and staff that their safety is top of mind is the best way to ensure people continue to shop local.”

Safety plan questions? Try WorkSafeBC at 604.276.3100 in the Lower Mainland (toll-free within B.C. at 1.888.621.SAFE).

READ MORE: Weekend of infections prompts new restrictions


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Jennifer Feinberg

About the Author: Jennifer Feinberg

I have been a Chilliwack Progress reporter for 20+ years, covering the arts, city hall, as well as Indigenous, and climate change stories.
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