Squamish residents must social distance to protect each other from the spread of COVID-19, says Mayor Karen Elliott.
Social distancing means to keep two metres away from others if out.
“Our number one job is to help protect our seniors and also the more vulnerable folks in our community,” Elliott said in a news release March 20. “We live in a community with an average age of just 37.5 which means that, if contracted, many of us could treat the COVID-19 virus easily while at home. That is not necessarily the case for those with pre-existing health conditions, and the risk increases for those over 50, and rises quite dramatically for those over 80. I am asking our younger population to please be mindful of your civic duty to help protect those who do not find themselves in your enviable position."
Apply a low threshold to any symptoms you may have. If in doubt, be cautious and stay home, she said.
“Keep the two-metre or six-feet distance. Don’t go out if you are showing any symptoms,” continues Elliott. “It’s just fine to ask for help and get someone to pick you up food and other key supplies. Give people distance at shops and grocery stores and on the sidewalk. This is our new normal. Let’s take care of each other.”
The B.C. Ministry of Health Self-Assessment Tool is available here. Check this before calling 811 to avoid overloading the phone line.
For ongoing District of Squamish updates go here.
